A MAN who was in possession of laughing gas with intent to supply it has been spared jail.

Sean Ansbro was caught in possession of the psychoactive substance while intending to deal it to others.

The 34-year-old was subsequently charged with possessing a psychoactive substance with intent to supply.

His case was listed for trial at Chester Crown Court on Thursday, January 12, however Ansbro changed his plea from not guilty to guilty on the same day.

His case then proceeded to sentence, where he was told that he would not be heading to custody immediately.

Jayne Morris, prosecuting, explained how the offence occurred in Warrington on October 15, 2020.

Ansbro was found to be in possession of a psychoactive substance, namely laughing gas, which the charge states he knew or suspected was a psychoactive substance.

The particulars of the charge add that he intended to supply it to another person for its consumption for its psychoactive effects.

Laughing gas, also known as nitrous oxide, is a colourless gas that is most commonly found in pressurised metal canisters.

You may have seen these metal canisters lying around in streets particularly outside bars and nightclubs.

When it is inhaled, usually through a balloon, it can make people feel dizzy and lead to hallucinations.

If you take too much nitrous oxide, you risk falling unconscious and suffocating from the lack of oxygen. People have also died this way.

Ansbro, of Deepdale in Leigh, was sentenced by recorder Ciaran Rankin to 12 months in prison suspended for 24 months.

He must also complete 10 rehabilitation activity requirement days and 150 hours of unpaid work in and for the benefit of the community.