I apologise if you've already heard this story on the news but, as we enter the "silly season," it's too good not to tell.
It relates to a 16-year-old boy in Northern Ireland who has just been handed down what can only be described as a "novel" sentence after failing a police drugs test yesterday. He admitted he'd taken cannabis before being arrested.
Perched on the Bench at Londonderry Magistrates' Court, District Judge Barney McIlhome decided to show the accused some leniency based on the latter's apparent love of art.
"You must bring with you a sketch pad and a pencil and you can draw me and the solicitors for two hours each day," Judge McIlhome told the no doubt bemused but relieved youngster. "Only me and the solicitors, and I will review the matter on Wednesday."
The judge added: "If you look stoned you will be arrested."
Let's hope he's not dopey (HA!)
