A DARTMOOR National Park Authority member has been warned he could face a jail sentence for allowing a £49,000 cannabis growing operation on his land.

 Former National Farmers' Union chairman John Shears allowed a young friend to set up a substantial plantation at land near his home at Chagford.

 The 70-year-old had been due to face trial at Exeter Crown Court for producing cannabis but the prosecution has accepted his plea to the lesser charge of permitting his land to be used.

 He admitted allowing the cultivation of cannabis on his premises on May 5, 2014. Daniel Perryman, of Exeter Road, Kingsteignton, admitted production of cannabis.

 Recorder Mr James Waddington, QC, adjourned both cases for a probation pre- sentence report.

 He said: 'The starting point for these types of offences is custody. All options will be open to the sentencing judge in both cases.'

Mr David Evans, for John Shears, said he admitted his offence at the preliminary hearing and was entitled to full credit for his plea. He said Shears was of good character and would be suitable for a suspended sentence.

The case follows a police raid last year in which 189 cannabis plants were seized, which allegedly were capable of producing drugs worth £49,000.