A teenager was exposed as an ecstasy dealer after he was seen behaving suspiciously at an 18th birthday party.

Joseph James Zajac, 18, was sentenced at Carlisle Crown Court for class A drugs supply crimes committed late last year.

Kim Whittlestone, prosecuting, told how Zajac was seen behaving suspiciously by door staff at an 18th birthday party held at Kells rugby club.

He was "flitting from group to group", in possession of cash, prompting staff to speak to him.

"He gave a false name and ran from the premises, leaving behind his wallet," said Miss Whittlestone.

Zajac's details were passed to police, who searched his home.

Ecstasy tablets worth £430 were recovered, along with plastic bags, scales, cash and mobile phones - the latter being analysed.

"They show, between November 30 and December 1, a number of text messages relating to the request and the sale of MDMA (ecstasy)," said Miss Whittlestone.

Zajac, of Aldby Grove, Cleator Moor, admitted being concerned in the supply of ecstasy, and possessing the class A drug with intent to supply.

Brendan Burke, defending, spoke of a "desperately sad situation".

The teen had taken ecstasy to "self-medicate" for anxiety and depression, and sold tablets after getting into debt, he said.

"He is glad he was caught after the event because he frankly says if he hadn't been it would have continued and got worse," said Mr Burke.

However, he had since abstained from drugs, and sought the help of professionals.

Concluding that there was a "realistic prospect of rehabilitation" for Zajac, Recorder Julie Clemitson suspended a 20-month custodial sentence for two years.

He must complete a six-month night-time curfew and 120 hours' unpaid work.

Recorder Clemitson said: "You understand that selling drugs to anyone is not just illegal - it is extremely dangerous."