Southsea 'cannabis picnic' 'was success'

Organisers have hailed a "cannabis picnic" in Southsea, aiming to raise awareness of the drug's "benefits", as a success.

The event on Saturday, which about 50 people attended, was devised by Hampshire Cannabis Community.

Organiser Simon Dignam said: "It was brilliant. There was no trouble at all. It was a great day."

Dr Janet Maxwell, director of public health for Portsmouth City Council, had warned people to "steer well clear".

She said: "We have to keep bringing home to people that the long-term effects of this drug are really damaging.

"Anything that encourages [drug use] and plays to particularly vulnerable youngsters could be harmful."

The group, which believes the class B drug should be legalised, said many people were unaware of its medicinal purposes.

Mr Dignam described the picnic in Castle Field, Southsea, as a family event, with several people bringing children.

He added: "It got the word out a little bit; that's all I wanted to do. If half a dozen people Googled it then that's OK.

"I'm not surprised it caused a stir, it's cannabis."

Hampshire Constabulary said it was not ready to comment.