An Isle of Wight visitor has been told to “stay away” from Class A drugs after being caught in possession while visiting his friend in Cowes.

Adam Jepson, of Bedhampton Hill in Havant, attended the IW Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, October 15, and pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine.

Liz Miller, prosecuting, said the 20-year-old was arrested in Cowes on July 1, and, during a search, a small wrap of white powder, suspected of being cocaine, was discovered.

Ms Miller told the court that police had not informed her of the reason for Jepson’s arrest.

During police interview, Jepson admitted that the white powder was cocaine, the court heard.

Oscar Vincent, defending, said his client was visiting a friend on the Island at the time of the incident.

Mr Vincent said Jepson was “surprised” to be approached by officers after an apparent disturbance in the area.

Jepson voluntarily surrendered his bag to be searched, which contained a very small amount of cocaine.

Magistrates warned Jepson “it is a slippery slope” with Class A drugs and told him to “stay away from it.”

Jepson was fined £120 with court costs of £85 and a surcharge of £48.