A PROLIFIC petrol thief from East Lancashire has finally been brought to justice.

Blackburn magistrates were told that Lee Shaun Reed, 27, had driven off from no fewer than 10 service stations, across Lancashire without paying for fuel.

His first offence was carried out in the Burnley area, on May 24, when he dodged a £53 bill.

And his last theft occurred on September 5, in Accrington, where he failed to pay £23.56 to the garage owners.

Reed, of Henthorn Road, Clitheroe, pleaded guilty to 10 offences of making off without payment, with other locations where he struck including Blackpool and Barnoldswick.

Magistrates imposed a 12-month community order, including 150 hours community service, with £263 compensation and £85 court costs.