A DRUG-addicted shoplifter had got through his biggest hurdle - and won a place on a methadone reduction programme, Burnley magistrates heard.

James Bradbury, 29, who helped himself to a £145 trolley full of stolen goods from Sainsbury's, wanted the continued support of the probation service, but would have no back-up if he was sent to custody, his solicitor told the court.

Bradbury, of Reed Street, Burnley, was put on probation for 12 months, after admitting theft and failing to surrender.

Graeme Tindall, defending, said Bradbury had recently suffered health problems and offended because of his drug problems.

Bradbury had now been on the methadone reduction programme for two weeks and had got past the waiting list and through the biggest hurdle, the court was told.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.