A REFORMING alcoholic reverted to type when another of his vices left him in a mood.

Blackburn magistrates heard Derek Robinson placed a losing bet, had no money left and wanted a drink.

His solution was to revert to type and steal a bottle of whisky with the intention of drowning his sorrows.

Robinson, 39, of Blackburn Road, Darwen, pleaded guilty to theft of a bottle of whiskey and a bottle of Dr Pepper from B & M Bargains. He was given a conditional discharge for nine months and ordered to pay £50 costs and £22 victim surcharge.

Passing sentence District Judge Roger Lowe said Robinson had an appalling record but had managed to stay out of trouble for six years.

"I hope this is a blip and not a return to old ways which would surely see you back in prison," he said.

Paul Sumner, prosecuting, said Robinson had been detained by security guards as he left the shop and the stolen items recovered.

Gareth Price, defending, said his client was living in long-term rehab as he fought his alcohol demons.

"One of his other vices is gambling and on the day of this offence he placed a losing bet," said Mr Price.

"He was unhappy, he had no money and he wanted a drink. You might conclude this is a blip rather than a return to previous form."