A WOMAN with a long-term drug habit has taken “great strides” in trying to rid herself of her addiction, a court heard.

Claire McLean was found to be in possession of a number of drugs when searched both at the scene after she was arrested for an alleged public order matter, in Horden, and later at a police station, on March 1, last year.

Shaun Dryden, prosecuting, told Durham Crown Court the recovered drugs included quantities of buprenorphine, cocaine and cannabis.

When interviewed she made no reply to police questions.

But the 42-year-old defendant, of Ashton Street, Easington Colliery, admitted simple possession of all three drugs.

Matthew Hopkins, for McLean, said all the drugs were for personal use at a time she was trying to overcome a heroin addiction.

But he said she has since undergone a drugs rehabilitation programme.

“I’m told she completed that and continues to engage on a voluntary basis with drug support workers,” added Mr Hopkins.

Judge Ray Singh said in those circumstances he would impose a 12-month conditional discharge for all the offences, with a seven-day residence order at her home address in Easington Colliery.

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