A drug-dealing clubber was arrested after he took the “bizarre” decision to refuse the offer of an amnesty by security staff, a court heard.

Jordan West was told the police would not be called if he handed over the 64 ecstasy tablets he had at The Source Bar in Rose Yard, Maidstone.

The town’s crown court was told the 24-year-old roofer, who would also have been barred, declined because he needed the drugs.

Judge Julian Smith told West, of Leicester Road, Shepway: “This case comes before the court as a result of your rather bizarre rejection of a relatively generous offer on the part of security staff.”

But he escaped being locked up after the judge decided his rehabilitation was “well in hand”.

He was sentenced to 21 months imprisonment suspended for two years with 180 hours of unpaid work. A tagged curfew from 9pm to 5.30am was imposed for four months.

Prosecutor Roderick James said West was offered the “search and amnesty” on June 3 last year after a doorman suspected he had something hidden in his clothing.

He was searched and the tablets and a small amount of a “pink ketamine” substance were seized.

“His account given was that he bought them for him and his friends, rather than a wider group,” said Mr James. “The Crown doesn’t accept that.”

A probation officer said the offence of possessing drugs with intent to supply was triggered by his own abuse, spending up to £200 a week.

“He said it was recreational and made him feel good,” said the officer. “He said he bought in bulk because it worked out cheaper. He acknowledged what he did was wrong.

“He says since he stopped taking drugs he feels better.”

Peter Alcock, defending, said West had made real progress with his addiction and turned his life around.

“Asked why he began taking drugs, he put it down to a combination of things,” said Mr Alcock. “Drugs were a way of living for a time.”

West was ordered to pay £500 costs.