A DARWEN man with a drug problem lasting over a decade has been given a chance to put his past behind him.

Andrew Shaw, convicted of having four and a half ounces of amphetamine paste for supply, avoided a prison sentence at Preston Crown Court.

Instead he was given 12 months community rehabilitation and ordered to carry out 100 hours of community work.

The 36-year-old, of Bedford Mews, Darwen, had denied possessing a Class B drug with intent to supply, but was found guilty by a jury following trial.

He had pleaded guilty to simple possession.

The offences date back to July last year. The value of the drugs would have been around £620 if sold in £5 deals, or £300 in bulk.

Defence barrister Richard Bennett said Shaw, who had a significant drug problem going back 14 or 15 years, continued to deny the first charge. But since the offences, positive changes had come about in his life.

Judge Peter Openshaw QC, in passing sentence, told Shaw: "Amphetamine, although only a Class B drug, is or may be dangerous in that long-term users frequently and do suffer serious mental illness."

However, he went on to add: "There are many indications that you have changed your life around. For the first time in many years, you have a stake in society which is worth preserving."

If a prison sentence was passed, Shaw would have served a few months. The judge said the public interest was strongly served by giving the defendant a chance.

He made a forfeiture and destruction order in respect of the drugs.