A MAN admitted shoplifting to fund his drug addiction.

Blackburn magistrates heard Kamran Sarwar also admitted failing to comply with a community order which the magistrates said could help him with his problem.

Sarwar, 41, of Clayton Street, Nelson, pleaded guilty to two charges of shoplifting and admitted breach of a community order.

He was made subject to a curfew for four weeks between 9 pm and 6 am and ordered to pay £130 compensation to Matalan and £47 to Home Bargains.

Parveen Akhtar, prosecuting, said Sarwar was seen leaving Matalan with two suitcases he hadn't paid for.

Staff followed him out of the store only to see him get in his car and drive off.

He was caught on CCTV stealing two Batman scooters and a Peppa Pig rocket toy from Matalan and later identified. He told police he had sold the toys to fund his drug habit.

Catherine Fell, defending, said her client accepted committing the offences because of his long-term drug problem.

"He has tried his best to sort out his drug addiction on his own but accepts he should be availing himself of the help offered by the probation service," said Miss Fell.