A 35-YEAR-OLD man who was addicted to drugs burgled his mother's home while she was in Australia, a court heard.

Preston Crown court was told that a relative contacted then her and told her of the burglary.

Darren Brumler, of William Street, Blackburn, admitted burgling his mother's home on Sunnybank Road, Blackburn, twice in May last year. Co-defendant Terry Howie, 25, of Robert Street, Blackburn admitted handling stolen goods.

Louise Whaites, prosecuting, told the court a DVD player and clothing had been taken.

Brumler's mother had changed her locks before going on holiday and had told relatives that due to his drug dependency her son was not allowed at her home. She had also asked police to keep an eye on the property.

Mark Stuart, defending Brumler, said he had been in custody for seven months and was now drug free. He had apologised and was sorry for what he had done and had written to his mother who had attended at court and was prepared to have him back.

Judge Robert Brown said he was prepared to follow the recommendations in a pre-sentence report in relation to Howie.

Brumler was sentenced to a 100 hour community punishment order and an 18 month community rehabilitation order. Howie was sentenced to a 12 month community rehabilitation order.