A man has been sentenced to 30 months in prison after blowing up his home from growing cannabis.

John Allison of Millmannoch Avenue, Drongan, now faces lengthy jail time for drug and reckless behaviour charges.

Fire services were called to the 24-year olds address at approximately 14.50 on November 14 last year where there had been a report of a fire and explosion.

On arrival to the property, Allison evidently injured, tried to refuse entry to the emergency service which was overturned.

A court heard that significant damage was caused to the property with windows blown out and ceilings that had been brought down.

After deemed safe by emergency services, a range of drug paraphernalia was found including butane gas cannisters that had caused the explosion.

Fiscal Ed Sheeran told that court that: “976 grams of cannabis bud and 69 grams of leaf were obtained along with several blow torches and butane gas canisters. There were 3 plants in growth and the total value of the drugs was around £4000 but could be sold for £7000.”

Mr. Derek Pettigrew, representing Allison, explained that his client never intended to cause any damage to the property. “Failure to close one of the valves on the butane cannisters caused gas to leak and a light igniting resulted in the explosion. The explosion was at the back of the building and he had no intention of blowing up the property.”

Sherriff Scott Pattison stated explained: “I have taken on board everything that has been said but the bottom line is that you were reckless which led to the explosion and exposed potential dangers to others and you have caused significant criminal damage.” Sheriff Pattison imposed a 30-month sentence that was reduced from 42.