A REFORMING drug addict who was also battling alcohol problems was praised by magistrates for his efforts.
And they rewarded Sean Fleming by wiping £495 off his debt to the court as long as he remained on the court corridor for half an hour.
"We have heard of the efforts and progress you are making and we are going to do something for you," said the chairman.
"If you stay on the court corridor until the close of business we will wipe £495 off your account.
"If you leave the court it will be the most expensive half hour of your life."
Fleming, 41, of Leyburn Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty at the town's magistrates to stealing a Dremel multi tool worth £45 from B&Q.
He was made subject to a community order for nine months with a six months alcohol treatment requirement and ordered to pay £45 compensation.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article