A "POACHER turned gamekeeper" slipped back into old ways after problems in his life.

Blackburn magistrates heard Stephen Mowles had done so well in beating his problems he ended up working for the THOMAS (Those On The Margins Of Society) Project in Blackburn helping others in a similar situation.

Mowles, 44, of Snowden Avenue, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to stealing steaks worth £107 from Lidl. He was given a conditional discharge for nine months and ordered to pay £85 costs and £30 victim surcharge.

Passing sentence the chairman of the magistrates said they had noticed there was a five-year gap in his record.

"It is a shame that has been spoiled but hopefully you are now turning things around again," he added.

Jonathan Taylor, defending, said his client had done so well in beating his drug demons that he ended up employed by the THOMAS Project helping others with similar problems to him.

"Things went wrong for him and that ended but he is now trying to get back to where he was," said Mr Taylor.

"He has sorted out accommodation and benefits and his aim is to get back working for the THOMAS Project."