A STUDENT, who was convicted of intent to supply drugs while crippled by debts, has been elected to give guidance to first-year students.

Lee Hyde, 21, a student at Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College was elected last Thursday to become the executive officer of the National Union of Students at his college.

A court heard in February that Hyde had confessed to police to cutting up cannabis to sell, after drugs were found in his room at the University Campus in Chalfont St Giles in October

He was given a 240-hour community service order after pleading guilty to possession of cannabis with intent to supply the maximum length order allowed.

Mayor of Amersham Josie Ricketts said she was appalled that he was allowed to be a role model for students.

She said: "He shouldn't be doing it if he has been dealing with drugs. They shouldn't give him a position of that status.

"I completely disagree with them (drugs). What if he starts doing it again? It will give a bad name for the students and could encourage them to do it as well."

Simon Booth, President of the Buckinghamshire Chilterns Student Union said: "It is a personal opinion. He was elected in a democratic way.

"Our constitution allows people with a conviction to run for office.

"Lee will be taking the position for the next academic year. It is relatively public knowledge.

"He has in no way tried to hide it."

A spokesman for the college said they had nothing to add to the student union president's statement.