A repeat offender was told it was up to him to decide his own future after being made subject to a suspended prison sentence.

Blackburn Magistrates' Court heard Duncan Faller had admitted 11 shoplifting offences committed to feed his drugs habit.

Faller, 33, of Cherry Tree Lodge, Islington, Blackburn, admitted to those charges, and two of failing to surrender to bail.

He was given a 10-week suspended jail term with a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement and six months drug rehabilitation requirement. .

He was ordered to pay £360 compensation to the shops involved.

District Judge Alexandra Preston said she had taken into account the defendant’s mental health difficulties, adding: “The sentence I have imposed is hanging over your head and it is your choice where you go next.”

Glen Anderton, prosecuting, all the shoplifting offences were similar and had been caught on CCTV. When interviewed Faller made reference to debts and stealing to live.

“He also said he had a drug habit and was stealing to fund his addiction,” said Mr Anderton.

Jonathan Taylor, in mitigation, said the offences crossed the custodial threshold but, in view of the fact the Probation Service said they could work with him, he would ask for that sentence to be suspended.