A MAN who twice got behind the wheel while banned has kept his freedom but was warned he would face sentence again if he flouted a community penalty.

Burnley magistrates heard how Peter John Thornton, 37, had not offended since and was trying to kick his drug habit. He had earlier had sentence deferred to see if he could stay out of trouble and get work.

The defendant, of Colville Street, Burnley, admitted two charges of driving while disqualified and using an uninsured vehicle. He was given a 12 months community rehabilitation order to include the Think First programme and was banned for a year. Thornton must also pay £50 costs.

Richard Taylor, defending, said Thornton was on sickness benefits which made it impossible to get work.

His previous convictions had been for dishonesty or violence and the offences were a complete change of character for him. Thornton had responded well to licence and there was a mellowing in his attitude.