Serial shoplifter Christopher Harding has been given a last chance by magistrates to improve his lifestyle.

Harding, 42, has been given just over three months reprieve - during which he must not steal from any more shops, rid himself completely of his heroin habit and get a regular job.

He was told by Basildon magistrates that reports on him will be studied. Sentence was deferred until March 6.

Harding, of Mellow Purgess, Basildon, has numerous previous convictions for shoplifting and has served prison sentences.

Simon Garrish, prosecuting, said Harding was seen stealing an auto lock from the B&Q store in Pipps Hill, Basildon, and put it inside his jacket.

He said he wanted to sell the £19.99 lock to buy himself some food. Mr Garrish said Harding gave the same reasons when he was caught stealing a £25 hairdryer from the Superdrug store in Eastgate centre, Basildon.

Harding's solicitor Mark Pearson said problems began to mount for the defendant when a relationship broke down.

He was now determined to beat his heroin addiction and was looked forward to starting regular work after a period of about ten years.

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