A JUDGE refused to accept a story that a 44-year-old man was minding heroin for a dealer.

Judge Ian Morris ordered Paul Ashcroft to give evidence before he could be sentenced.

Ashcroft, of Ismere Way, Kidderminster, had originally claimed a large quantity of heroin found in his possession was for personal use.

But prosecutor Guy Spollon told Worcester Crown Court he was now saying he was the guardian for the hoard.

Ashcroft pleaded guilty to possesssion of heroin on August 21 last year with intent to supply.

Defence barrister Alastair Edie said there was no drug paraphernalia associated with dealing found by police or drug profits.

But Judge Morris said the evidence indicated that the hoard was for commercial dealing.

He added: "A court can be misled over a basis of plea. If it is not realistic, it has to be tested."

He remanded Ashcroft in custody for evidence to be heard on a day to be fixed.