A DRUG addict who carried out seven robberies has been sent to jail and told by a judge that if he didn't change his ways, he would kill himself.

Gareth Dwyer, 21, who had stolen from an elderly woman he regarded as an aunt as she made him a cup of tea, had broken into six shops in Nelson with his 18-year-old cousin in a bid to fund his addiction.

Sending him to prison for two years, Recorder Steven Everett said Dwyer's need to fund his habit was selfish and he had caused untold trouble for his victims.

He added the theft from the woman had been mean and a breach of trust as he had repaid her hospitality by helping himself to her property.

The judge said Dwyer was shortening his life dramatically if he kept abusing drugs.

"He went on to give the defandant a dramatic warning: "If you continue your current way of life, you won't be in court, you will be dead. It's as simple as that."

Dwyer, of Portland Street, Colne, admitted six burglaries at the Arcade, a further offence of burglary and one charge of handling stolen goods.

Sue Riley, prosecuting, told Burnley Crown Court the defendant stole cash and caused damage running into hundreds of pounds at the six premises in January.

Dwyer and his so-defendant were arrested in the afternoon of the same day. He made no comment when interviewed.

When questioned a second time, he admitted the offences and told police one of his accomplices had cut the burglar alarms.

In February, he had a stolen mobile phone in his possession and the day after he visited the elderly woman.

After he left, she noticed her handbag and its contents had been taken.

Kathryn Johnson, defending, said Dwyer had been in custody since February 9 and the court could consider an alternative to jail.

The defendant had the advanatge of a supportive family but although his father was in court, he did not approve of his son's actions.

The burglaries were at commercial premises, committed at the same time, in the same area.

Miss Johnson urged the court to give the defendant a last chance to see if he could make something of his life.