A DRUG addict who carried out a string of bag snatches in a desperate bid to feed his habit has been jailed for six years.

Paul Broadhurst, 39, carried out four robberies and eight thefts over a period of nearly three months.

In two instances he violently pushed two women in the street -- leaving them in shock.

Broadhurst, of Park Road, Chorley, appeared for sentence at Preston Crown Court.

He had pleaded guilty to two robberies and asked for another two to be taken into consideration, along with eight thefts.

The offences ran from February to April this year and all occured in the Chorley area.

One of Broadhurst's victims was at court to see him punished for his crimes.

Martin Hackett, defending, said that in pleading guilty, Broadhurst had saved the victims of very bad attacks from having to give evidence at court.

He had wanted to wipe the slate clean and expressed remorse.

Passing sentence, Judge Peter Smith, said Broadhurst had been very co-operative with the police.