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Cannabis Campaigners' Guide News Database result:
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UK: Cannabis cafe closed
Nick Ellis icNorthWales.co.uk
Friday 12 Sep 2003 The owner of Wales' first cannabis cafe appeared before Prestatyn Magistrates yesterday (Thursday) charged with possessing a class B drug. Businessman Jeffrey Joseph Ditchfield, formerly of Henllan, Denbigh, pleaded not guilty to charges of possession of a class B drug and possession of a quantity of cannabis with intent to supply. Mr Ditchfield was arrested this week when North Wales Police raided his shop, The Beggars Belief, in Rhyl, and found cannabis on the premises. The police closed the shop within minutes of it opening at noon last Saturday. Mr Ditchfield was placed on unconditional bail pending further inquiries and three other men from outside North Wales, have been reported for alleged possession of marijuana. Mr Ditchfield's trail was adjourned to November 6 where he will appear before Denbighshire Magistrates. A police spokesperson said officers would closely monitor the cafe following the raid. "Police officers have spoken to Mr Ditchfield and have outlined that the opening of the shop or cafe is not illegal. However, he needs to carefully consider the impact of his venture on the community as it will increase the fear of crime," she added. "Mr Ditchfield is aware of this and we have asked him to act responsibly. "The public can be confident North Wales Police is fully committed to upholding the law in regard to drug crime. Consequently, we would encourage the public to contact the police directly if they have any concerns regarding The Beggars Belief. "North Wales Police will be monitoring the premises and any breaches of the law will be met with appropriate policing response." Earlier this year charges of possessing cannabis and possession with intent to supply against Mr Ditchfield were dismissed at Manchester Crown Court . Before opening the cafe on Saturday,he claimed it would offer cannabis seeds, growing equipment and legal intoxicating herbs. During the day, elderly multiple sclerosis sufferers turned up outside the cafe to offer their support. Vale of Clwyd MP Chris Ruane and a number of community leaders have criticised Mr Ditchfield's claims that the shop would highlight the benefits of cannabis for medicinal purposes. Anyone with any information about The Beggars Belief should contact the police on 0845 607 1001/02 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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