A THIEF repeatedly took large quantities of ice cream and biscuits from Accrington stores to raise money to pay for drugs.

Blackburn magistrates heard on the last occasion Jordan Monks pushed past a member of staff who challenged him as he left Tesco Express.

Monks, 20, of Marlsford Street, Liverpool, pleaded guilty to stealing Ben and Jerry's ice cream worth £50 from Tesco Express on May 29, stealing Ben and Jerry's ice cream worth £100 from Farmfoods on June 1, theft of ice cream worth £40 from Tesco Express on June 6, theft of Oreo biscuits worth £38 from Tesco Express and assaulting Peter Edwards on June 8.

The magistrates requested a pre-sentence report and remanded Monks on bail to the court corridor so he could be interviewed by the probation service. He came onto the court corridor but then left and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

Pam Ward, prosecuting, said Mr Edwards confronted Monks as he left the store on Tuesday June 8.

"He became aggressive and pushed Mr Edwards," said Mrs Ward. "He then picked up a tin of rice pudding and threatened to throw it in his face if he didn't get out of his way."

Gareth Price, defending, said drugs were the issue for his client.

"About 12 months ago he went cold turkey and got off them quite quickly through his own efforts," said Mr Price.

"Sadly there has been a relapse which has led to this offending. He is very disappointed with himself."