A MAN who admitted stealing to fund his drug habit made his third appearance in court within two weeks.

Blackburn magistrates heard Sajid Hussain was made subject to a community order when he appeared before the court on July 2 for shoplifting.

He was back before the court for similar offences on July 11 when he was fined.

The following day he was caught stealing a bottle of gin from Tesco in Rawtenstall.

Making him subject to a suspended prison sentence the magistrates said it was his final chance.

Hussain, 29, of Deardengate, Haslingden, pleaded guilt to theft from Tesco.

He was sentenced to four weeks in prison suspended for 12 months and ordered to pay £85 costs and £85 victim surcharge.

Daniel Frazer, defending, said his client was fully aware of the situation he had put himself in.