A DRUG addict caught red-handed after a failed shop break-in was jailed for 12 months.

John David Warrener, 31, and an accomplice tried to flee the Food Weighhouse store, in Chester-le-Street, when police arrived on the scene shortly after 6pm on December 7.

Durham Crown Court heard they were seen leaving from the rear of the Front Street premises.

But Warrener caught his track suit sleeve on the damaged back door, and was detained and arrested.

A jemmy and a hand scraper, which were used to gain access to the premises, were recovered at the scene.

Lesley Kirkup, prosecuting, said Warrener has served several prison sentences for mainly commercial burglaries.

Nigel Barnes, for Warrener, said he and a friend came to Chester-le-Street to buy heroin, but when they called at the address of a dealer were told to come back later.

While filling in time, they carried out the unsuccessful break-in, during which they caused only a small amount of damage.

Mr Barnes said Warrener is seeking to give up his heroin addiction and a spell behind bars may help to force him out of the habit.

Warrener, of Exmouth Street, Carley Hill, Sunderland, admitted burglary at a previous hearing.

Jailing him, Judge Maurice Carr said shop burglaries appear to be Warrener's "forte".

"You are 31 and you are wasting your life. You're a persistent burglar who has acquired a drug habit.

"I hope you succeed in getting rid of your drug addiction."