A CHEPSTOW man yesterday changed his plea midway through his trial and admitted his part in a £22,000 cannabis farm.

Ian Varley, 37, of St George Road, pleaded guilty to being concerned in the production of cannabis, and criminal damage, on the second day of the trial at Cardiff Crown Court.

The court heard that Varley became involved in the cannabis factory in Bulwark to clear a drugs debt.

On Tuesday, the court heard that Varley led police to a cannabis farm at his house, which had a street value of £22,000.

Police were called to a report of a disturbance on Alpha Road in the early hours of July 21 last year where he was found. He told the officer about the drugs, saying, “ I can’t take it no more ,” the court heard.

Defending Stephen Thomas said: “Without him the police may well have never come across this factory.”

On Tuesday, Sgt Richard Dibley said Varley revealed two rooms containing cannabis plants. He could hear a motor and there appeared to be a watering system.

Prosecutor Laurence Jones said 113 plants were discovered, 44 of which could have been sold on the street for £22,000.

The court heard the landlady estimated £26,000-worth of damage was caused to her house.

Timothy Brennan QC said: “He’s not the brains behind the arrangement.

He was in it for the money.”

Varley was granted bail on condition he co-operates with the probation service. He will be sentenced tomorrow.