Darren Pritchard: Cannabis relieves 'mentally and physically'

Darren Pritchard, from Magor near Chepstow, says the law should be changed to allow ill people to use the drug to cope with their condition.

On Monday, the 35-year-old was cleared after the prosecution offered no evidence in the case at Cardiff Crown Court.

Mr Pritchard, who broke his neck in an accident 12 years ago and is paralysed from the neck down, said he could not cope without the cannabis.

"It is the only relief that I get," he said.

There is no purpose whatsoever in prosecuting him for growing cannabis in an attempt to alleviate his pain Judge William Gaskell

"The tablets don't do anything at all - it the cannabis that gives me relief mentally and physically."

Mr Pritchard was charged with growing and possessing the drug after police found seven plants at his home.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said it decided not to proceed because of concerns about Mr Pritchard's health.

Prosecutor Lee Ingham said the CPS realised there could be "no appropriate punishment" imposed, even though it should not be seen to be dropping cases.

Judge William Gaskell said the cost of a prosecution would be out of proportion with the public interest.

"There is no purpose whatsoever in prosecuting him for growing cannabis in an attempt to alleviate his pain," he said.

Mr Pritchard welcomed the decision, adding the prospect of the trial had left him frustrated and depressed, and had stopped him going out.