A COMPUTER firm worker who stole almost £23,000 in a credit-card fraud has been given a 10-month jail term.

A court heard how Karl Kent, 20, then earning £12,000 a year, had money troubles when he pinched the cash from Granville Technology, Simonstone.

Kent was told by a judge he had had everything going for him - but for the offences.

Recorder David Aubrey QC said Kent had been employed to behave responsibly and honestly but had breached his bosses' trust - and he knew full well he must pay the price with his freedom.

But he added: "I hope that when you have served your sentence, you can return to leading a law-abiding and honest life."

Kent, of Rifle Street, Haslingden, admitted six charges of theft at Burnley Crown Court and asked for six to be considered.

Roger Green, prosecuting, told the court the defendant worked in the credit card processing department and took the money between last November and June this year.

Kent would initiate an entirely fictitious refund and ensure the funds that were purportedly refunded by his employers were paid into one of three accounts he held with different banks. The company noticed something was amiss two weeks after the defendant had voluntarily left his job.

Mr Green said when questioned, Kent told officers he had got into financial difficulties moving house.

Anthony Cross, defending, said temptation was placed in Kent's way and he foolishly decided to steal because of expenses he had taken on but could not afford to keep up.