A THIEF went out shoplifting to raise cash to buy a wreath for his mother's grave, Burnley Magistrates heard.

Jonathan Allen, 27, had wanted to spend January 28 at the place where his mother was buried exactly a year before - but instead he was in the cells after getting arrested.

Allen had helped himself to a £40 cordless drill from Woolworths and two bottles of champagne worth £47 from Morrisons, the court was told.

Allen, of Napier Street, Nelson, admitted two counts of theft on January 24 and 28.

He was remanded in custody until February 12, for a pre-sentence report.

John Nuttall, defending, said Allen's mother was buried on January 28, last year.

He was desperate to buy a wreath for her grave.

He fully intended to steal to raise cash for flowers.

Allen had intended to go to her burial place on January 28, but instead was arrested.

Mr Nuttall said: "He realises he absolutely blew it.

"Not only did he go about things the wrong way, he spent all day in custody.

"He didn't even get the opportunity to go and place the flowers."

Mr Nuttall said Allen had put himself in a difficult position.

The solicitor, who urged the court to give the defendant a final opportunity, added he had been clearly upset when interviewed by the police and had told them about the anniversary of his mother's death.