MARK Anthony Jones got involved in the disposal of some 'hot' property as a favour to a friend.

Blackburn magistrates heard that while Jones did not know the central heating radiators were stolen he had his suspicions and knew he should have steered clear.

Jones, 37, of Worcester Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to handling stolen property. He was made subject to an 18 month community rehabilitation order, with a condition that he attends the Think First programme, and ordered to pay £65 costs.

Eddied Harrison, prosecuting, said the entire central heating system, including the radiators, combi boiler and gas fire, had been stripped from an unoccupied house in Hereford Road, Blackburn.

Kevin Preston, defending, said Jones maintained that he had got involved not for financial gain but as a favour to someone who had helped him in the past.

"In simple terms he was approached and asked if he could help to find a buyer for the radiators," said Mr Preston.

"He has acted as go-between and helped unload the radiators but he also helped the police to recover the property once he had been arrested."