A MAN caught stealing lead from a kitchen roof received support from the victim.

Blackburn magistrates heard Jamie Caddis was detained by the householder until the police arrived.

But prosecutor Parveen Akhtar said the victim had been very understanding about the defendant's situation.

"He would like the court to know he holds no grudges and hopes the defendant gets some help to get back on his feet," said Miss Akhtar.

Caddis, 34, of no fixed address but formerly of Charles Street, Nelson, pleaded guilty to theft of lead belonging to Stephen Smith in Barkerhouse Road, Nelson.

He was made subject to a community order with nine months drug rehabilitation requirement, fined £20 and ordered to pay £85 costs.

Miss Akhtar said Mr Smith had been disturbed at about 11pm on Monday (January 21) when he heard banging coming from the roof of his kitchen extension.

He went out to investigate and saw a male on his roof removing lead.

"He kept hold of him until the police arrived," said Miss Akhtar.

Nick Dearing, defending, said his client had a care of address but no stable accommodation.

"He doesn't have a claim for benefits and he has been living hand to mouth existence," said Mr Dearing.

"He doesn't know the victim but during the time they were waiting they had a conversation and, to his credit, Mr Smith seems to have turned a sympathetic ear."