When one door closed another opened for a drug addict who was desperate to kick his habit.

Blackburn magistrates heard the family of Benjamin Ellis Wareing had been trying desperately to get him a place in rehab and his case had been adjourned for three weeks to see if they could succeed.

The court was told a place was not available but Wareing had used the time productively by completing eight drug education courses in prison.

“Each course normally takes four weeks and the speed with which he has completed them demonstrates his commitment,” said Damien Pickup, defending.

“He has realised he doesn’t want to be in prison and he doesn’t want to be involved with drugs and committing offences.”

Wareing, 27, of Ramsgreave Drive, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to eight charges of shoplifting. He was made subject to a community order for 12 months with a 10 week curfew between 7pm and 7am, a drug rehabilitation order for six months and 20 days rehabilitation activity requirement.

District Judge Alexandra Preston told Wareing she was lodging all his existing fines so he could come out of prison with a clean slate.

“During your time in prison you have motivated yourself to complete multiple courses to address your drug taking behaviour,” said District Judge Preston.

“That impresses me. Three weeks ago I was of the view your case passed the custodial threshold but I am now persuaded to go along with a community order.

“You have taken the positive first steps but it will be a long road for you.”

Mr Pickup said when Wareing appeared three weeks earlier there had been hope his client could get a residential rehabilitation place through the Thomas Project.

“For various reasons that hasn’t happened but he has not let that stop him,” said Mr Pickup.

“The short sharp shock of his first time in prison has done its bit, he has done his bit and now he wants to move on with his life.”