A MAN remanded in custody for breaching an anti-social behaviour order learned of his mother's death while in prison.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Gary Leatherd had been devastated by the death of the most important woman in his life.

And Roger Pickles, defending, asked the magistrates to grant his client bail so that he didn't have to attend her funeral handcuffed to two prison officers.

Leatherd, 36, of New Wellington Street, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to the breach.

He was remanded on bail for the preparation of a pre-sentence report but the magistrates said they would not rule out custody as a sentencing option.

Mr Pickles said alcohol was behind his client's problems and his behaviour in drink had resulted in the anti-social behaviour order.

"He has been in prison for a week and his mother died quite suddenly on Sunday," said Mr Pickles.

"It has upset him greatly that he couldn't be with his father at a time when he needed him most.

"The prospect of attending his mother's funeral handcuffed to two prison officers has also been very distressing for him."