REFORMING drug addict Ian Gordon Reid was praised for his efforts to beat the heroin habit.

And Blackburn magistrates also applauded the work of the Thomas Project in helping drug addicts in Blackburn to help themselves.

Reid, 33, of Heys Lane, Blackburn, pleaded guilty in January to two charges of obtaining property by deception and the magistrates deferred sentence after being told that he was taking part in the rehabilitation programme.

The magistrates sitting to pass sentence heard that the intervening months had been tough but rewarding for Reid who was given a conditional discharge for six months and ordered to pay £75 costs and £115 compensation.

Peter Wild, prosecuting, said Reid had gone into a tool shop in Blackburn Road, Darwen, and bought an angle grinder using a cheque in the name of Ian Reid Welding Services.

He went in again three days later and bought another angle grinder, but both cheques were for an account which had been closed in 1999.

Basharat Ditta, defending, said that until the age of 30 Reid had lived a law abiding and industrious life. But Mr Ditta said Reid lost his business, home and the respect of those nearest to him after getting caught up with drugs.

He said that when Reid first appeared in court he had just started the rehabilitation programme provided by the Thomas Project.

"Your colleagues adjourned sentence to see what he would achieve. As you will hear he is one of the project's success stories," said Mr Ditta.