A DRUG addicted thief who faces major heart surgery knew he was asking for trouble if he continued his habit, a court was told.

Burnley Magistrates heard how James Patrick Shaw had been given "frightening messages" from doctors after being taken to hospital for tests.

Shaw, who has been on remand in custody, won his freedom after the bench gave him a 12 months community rehabilitation order.

The defendant, of Florence Avenue, Burnley, admitted stealing from shop premises and three counts of failing to surrender.

Dylan Bradshaw, defending, said Shaw had gone into the shop while under the influence of drugs. He had stolen property to fund his habit of between five and six bags of heroin a day.

The defendant had detoxified while in prison and had gone through cold turkey, Mr Bradshaw continued.