A MAN whose life was in turmoil was caught inside a car sales compound in the early hours of the morning.

Blackburn magistrates heard Jonny Riley had initially intended to get his head down on a couch in the office but accepted he had then gone looking for anything he could steal.

Riley, 30, of Hamer Avenue, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to being found on enclosed premises for an unlawful purpose, namely theft.

He was made subject to a community order for 12 months with 10 days rehabilitation requirement and ordered to pay £100 costs and £85 victim surcharge.

Catherine Allan, prosecuting, said police were called to A & J Motors on Audley Range after a report of an intruder in the compound which was surrounded by a five feet metal fence. They found Riley inside the compound.

Ian Huggan, defending, said Riley had a row with his girlfriend and she had thrown him out.

He was aware there was a couch in the sales office at the compound and initially went in to get his head down.

Mr Huggan said his client had certain difficulties as a result of a very complicated birth.

His mother left because of post natal depression and he had been raised by his father.

"His dad was diagnosed with lung cancer and he was admitted to a hospice in March," said Mr Huggan.

"My client's mum came to visit his dad but a few hours after the visit he died. As a result there has been something of a reconciliation with his mother although there are difficulties because of his feelings as a result of her being out of his life for such a long time."

Mr Huggan said the offence was committed in May at a time when his client was in a very emotional state.

Passing sentence District Judge Huw Edwards said; "I appreciate you are a young man who has had more than his share of personal difficulties."