The officer was let in by Shane Haslam (25), who admitted he was cultivating the 18-inch plant at his home on Lord Street.

Nottingham Crown Court was told on Thursday that in a locked cupboard there were 28 packages of cannabis weighing 525 grams –– of which 139grams were cannabis resin.

Prosecutor Paul Stimson said Haslam frankly admitted the cannabis under the stairs was his and that he intended supplying it to people in Forest Town.

Haslam, who had no previous convictions, admitted he had already sold some for £20 on one occasion.

He admitted to possession of the drug with intent to supply last November.

In mitigation, Michael Evans said: "It was not professional and he made nothing out of it. He's a charming young man and is terrified of what will happen to him."

Haslam now had a job and a partner with two children, who has told him she will kick him out if he is involved with drugs again.

Judge Dudley Bennett said he originally had a prison term of more than a year in mind.

But the judge added: "The amateur nature of all this was shown by growing the cannabis plant in the window for all to see."

Sentencing was postponed for six months to see if Haslam can keep out of further trouble.