A DRUG user who repeatedly stole to fund his habit claimed he was anxious to "break the cycle" and get help with his problem.

But Blackburn magistrates were told by the Probation Service that Paul Hargreaves had "totally failed" to comply with an existing order.

Peter King, defending, asked the magistrates to consider a suspended sentence for Hargreaves.

The chairman of the bench said there was nothing to persuade them to suspend the sentence.

"You have been going to Inspire and haven't done anything but pick up your methadone prescription," she said.

"There is no evidence of any meaningful co-operation with either Inspire or the Probation Service.

Hargreaves, 36, of Dickinson Close, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to six charges of theft from Home Bargains, two from Wilko and one from Morrisons. He was sentenced to 14 weeks in prison with £128 victim surcharge.

Jade Coleman, prosecuting, said items stolen from Home Bargains included jars of coffee, Lynx deodorants, fabric conditioner, USB chargers, and washing powder.

On two occasions he stole razor blades worth over £80 from Wilko and stole two bottles of Jack Daniels from Morrisons.

Mr King said there had been no altercations and his client had been entirely straightforward with the police.

"There is no drug rehabilitation programme in place at the moment which is something he thinks he would benefit greatly from," said Mr King.

"He wants to break the cycle he is stuck in.

Charlotte Ashworth, for the Probation Service, said there had been total non-compliance with the order to which Hargreaves was currently subject and breach papers were being prepared.

"In view of that his supervising officer recommends a custodial sentence," said Mrs Ashworth.