A THIEF in the grip of drugs punched a security guard who tried to stop him getting away from a shop.

Burnley Magistrates heard how Craig Franks, 29, had tried to make a run for it after refusing to go back into the store.

Franks, who helped himself to goods worth £45, had 17 previous convictions for theft.

He was made the subject of a curfew order after his solicitor told the court that such a restriction could bring stability into drug users' lives.

Franks, of Pine Street, Nelson, admitted theft and was told he must stay indoors between 9pm and 8am for six months.

Lyn Slater, defending, said Franks appreciated his behaviour was a problem for society. He came from a good background but had become involved in the 'evils' of drug abuse. He knew he faced a very real risk of being sent to custody but a curfew order could stabilise his life.

Mrs Slater said curfews made drug users address their problems as they tended to sleep during the day and be awake at night. They had to stay in a certain place overnight and start to develop a more normal lifestyle.

She added that Franks knew he was going to come before the courts time and again unless he got to grips with his addiction.