A DRUG addict who broke into a charity premises and stole a £1,670 haul got a helping hand to beat his habit.

Paul Ludlam, 33, was arrested after he left his baseball cap and footprints at the Lancashire Youth Association in Burnley.

The defendant, who has 55 previous convictions, was given 12 months supervision, with a nine-month drug rehabilitation requirement, and the addressing substance-related offending programme.

Ludlam was told by the bench chairman at Burnley Magistrates Court: "This really is the last opportunity you have to get your life in order."

The defendant, of Ardwick Street, Burnley, admitted burglary on February 5.

Catherine Allan, prosecuting, told the court the burgled premises was a registered charity and was left locked and secure.

The alarm went off in the early hours and the project manager found paper strewn around, the suspended ceiling hanging down and a gap in the roof.

Computer equipment and a camcorder worth £1,670 were missing and were not recovered.

The defendant was arrested after the hat left at the scene was DNA tested.

Ludlam had a number of convictions for burglary and theft and had served a three-year jail term for supplying drugs.

Graeme Parkinson, defending, said Ludlam would say he needed help. He knew a community order was an option to custody and if he messed up he would be going to prison.