A MALVERN man with a history of depression was caught with crack cocaine in his possession.

Police found a white substance in cling film after they used a search warrant to enter John Mason's previous address in Cowleigh Road, Malvern.

Worcester magistrates heard how the unemployed 36-year-old, who is currently living with his father in Orford Way, Malvern, had bought the drug for his own use.

John Barnett, prosecuting, said police found Mason in possession of 0.25g of crack cocaine on Wednesday, December 19.

"It was analysed by forensic scientists and placed at a street value of £20," he said.

"He was arrested that day and admitted it was for his personal use."

Charles Hamer, defending, said Mason paid £15 for the crack cocaine.

"It was for his own consumption but he hadn't got round to using it," he said.

"He has been troubled in various ways and there is a history of drug use, depression and similar disorders.

"His father recently took him in as John had nowhere else to go."

Mason pleaded guilty to possessing the drug.

Magistrates fined him £100 and ordered him to pay costs of £55.