A THIEF who has flouted court orders and failed to work with the probation service has won his freedom.

Burnley Magistrates gave Leslie Lanceley, 24, bail for a pre-sentence report and adjourned his case until October 22.

The defendant, of Colne Road, Burnley, had admitted theft of coffee and copper piping and had been in custody.

The bench, who said Lanceley's co-operation in the past with the probation service had been non existent, was warned he would end up back behind bars if he failed to keep appointments.

Lanceley was ordered to live and sleep at his given address and to report to Burnley police station on October 21.

Elizabeth Reed, prosecuting, told the court the defendant did not take much notice of court orders.

Richard Taylor, defending, said Lanceley had had a drug problem but was now on a methadone reduction programme.