A MAN too scared to face the consequences of his crime has been jailed for nine months.

William Smith failed to turn up at court on a sentencing date. He eventually surrendered to police -- and received a prison sentence on appearing at Preston Crown Court.

The 44-year-old, of Lawrence Street, Blackburn, had pleaded guilty to three charges of theft, seven of deception, and one of attempted deception. He asked for 39 offences to be considered.

Mr Jacob Dyer, prosecuting, said the case involved three bank cards which had failed to reach the people they were sent to. The cards came into the defendant's possession and he used them.

The total sum involved was nearly £2,000 and the offences occurred over a relatively short period.

Mr John Woodward, defending, said Smith had been released on bail "to get his house in order" should the court pass a prison sentence. He apologised for not attending court on the previous date. Mr Woodward said: "Quite frankly he was scared. He buried his head in the sand, anticipating a custodial sentence."

Smith was said to have turned to crime to feed a drug habit. He had since weaned himself off drugs and sought expert help.

"Professional help may finally nip it in the bud," added his barrister.

Judge Anthony Proctor told Smith: "You must know that credit and cheque card fraud is rife, costing the banks hundreds of millions of pounds."