A DRUG addict who went on a £150 shoplifting spree was given a 12-month community rehabilitation order.

Burnley Magistrates' Court heard David Stanley, 36, threw his haul over a wall into a canal and, although the goods were recovered, they were not fit to be sold.

Stanley, of Whitegate Close, Padiham, admitted theft and was told to pay £150.41 compensation but no court costs.

The bench told the defendant he committed two thefts within a short space of time but co-operated with police. He had an "atrocious record," with 70 similar offences.

Paul Wood, defending, said Stanley decided to go stealing while his girlrfriend was having an interview in Burnley town centre. He threw the goods over a wall.

At one point the defendant was taking eight bags of heroin a day. He started using drugs again about 11 months ago and was now on four bags a day.

Stanley had not offended when not taking drugs and wanted some help for his addiction.