A PERSISTENT teenage drug dealer escaped an immediate prison sentence on Friday.

Kurt Challoner, 18, of Maple Way, Salisbury, had previously pleaded guilty to possession of a class B drug with intent to supply.

Police searching his house on April 24, 2014, found a number of cannabis wraps totalling about ten grams, the court heard.

He had been before the courts for similar offences twice before.

Representing Challoner at Salisbury Crown Court, Nicholas Cotter said: “He sold cannabis to a relatively small number of people.

“It was a poor decision and he has learned from it.

“This is a young man who’s grown up and matured.”

Sentencing Challoner to eight months in prison suspended for a year, and 150 hours of unpaid work, Judge Barnett said: “You have got to learn the lesson that if you keep doing it you are going to go to prison.

“I’m hoping that by taking a chance with you, because you are only 18, you will be able to sort yourself out.

“That choice is yours.

“You must understand if there are any breaches or failures you are likely to lose your liberty because the court will not give you a second chance.

“I hope this court and no other court ever sees you again.”