A man who tried to illegally sell African elephant ivory on eBay has been handed a suspended prison sentence.

Shane David Ball, 27, pleaded guilty to two offences today at Carlisle Crown Court.

He admitted the prohibited offering - and also keeping - of a specimen for sale. His offences were committed in June and July last year.

The court heard Ball attempted to bypass strict eBay controls by using the seemingly innocuous code word "cowbone" - instead of ivory - to describe his illegal wares.

Some of the tiny items eventually seized from his home at Derwent Avenue in Seaton, near Workington, were on sale for around £100 each.

Ball, said to have "significant" mental health issues, was given a seven-month prison sentence which was suspended for 18 months.

He must also undergo a rehabilitation requirement and pay £1,134 costs.

Recorder Grice told Ball: "It must be made clear to you and and anyone else who may become aware of this or any similar case that those who trade in African elephant ivory are, by that trade, promoting the slaughter of such animals."