A DRUG dealer was caught with almost £2,000 of illegal substances after police saw him stumbling from his car to his home.

Joseph Mackenzie, from Darlington, was also prosecuted for driving over the prescribed limit for ketamine and cocaine.

The 21-year-old avoided a prison sentence after a judge heard that he has taken "active steps" to address his addiction.

Teesside Crown Court was told that he had £1,800 of cocaine and £180 of ketamine when he was arrested on December 7.

Ben Pegman, mitigating, said Mackenzie had suffered "a spectacular fall from grace after having the world at his feet".

The court heard that he trained as a joiner after leaving school, and was promoted to a trainee quantity surveyor.

Mr Pegman told Judge Tony Briggs: "Unfortunately, his social use of cocaine became a problem and escalated.

"It cropped up on him. He has had some medical difficulties in his life and has endured significant surgery to his legs.

"It got out of control and led to the loss of a glittering career, and a matter of extreme regret. He is remorseful."

Mr Pegman told the court that Mackenzie has not touched drugs for three months since seeking help for his addiction.

Mackenzie, of Newton Lane, Darlington, admitted possessing Class A drugs with intent to supply, and possessing Class B.

He also pleaded guilty to driving over the prescribed limit, and was banned from the roads for a year.

Judge Briggs imposed a two-year prison sentence, suspended for two years, and a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement.

He told Mackenzie: "This is a sad and unfortunate case. You seem to have made active steps to address your addiction.

"It is apparent you started life with some physical difficulties, that are still causing you problems, and despite that you seem to have made a good start on your working life and career, but you have ruined it by getting involved in cocaine."