AN ASPATRIA man has been fined after he admitted cultivating cannabis.

Albert Dixon, 49, of Chapel Terrace, Prospect, appeared at the magistrates court in Workington on Friday. He also admitted assaulting a 14-year-old boy.

Pam Fee, prosecuting, said the boy was on holiday in the area and staying in the house next door to Dixon. The boy had been riding his bike around the village with another youngster. Miss Fee said Dixon told the boy: "If I find anything has been taken from my garden I will kill you." When police arrived they found cannabis plants and equipment to grow them at the defendant's home.

Ian Nancollis, defending, said a neighbour saw the children in Dixon's garden. Mr Nancollis added Dixon suffered with chronic pain and was hoping the cannabis would help manage it. Dixon was fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 costs and £30 victim surcharge. He will also have to pay £50 compensation to the boy.