A VAGRANT has appeared in court after he fell asleep in a police station.

John Worton, who was banned last month from entering Middlesbrough town centre, was arrested after an officer recognised the snoozing alcoholic.

A probation officer, who told the hearing Worton's "only friend is alcohol", believes he is in need of help not custody.

The 54-year-old homeless man yesterday admitted the breach at Teesside Magistrates' Court.

Worton is also barred from being abusive and threatening to members of the public, behaving in a way that could cause alarm or distress, enticing others to behave in an intimidating or distressing way, and he must not steal or damage property anywhere in England or Wales.

Alan Devon, of the probation service, told the hearing Worton was in need of help and this time his behaviour has caused no alarm.

He said: "He has not been shouting at the public he has not alarmed anybody - he was just sleeping. He has severe difficulties which should be addressed. For us to work with him, we have to accept where he is in his life. Before his breakdown, he was a highly-skilled carpenter. He is a proud man and we hope to get him in accommodation where he feels secure. His only real friend is alcohol and that is his support structure."

Cleveland Police also has relaxed the conditions of the anti-social behaviour to allow Worton to come into the town centre to attend probation appointments.

Worton's solicitor, Scott Taylor, said: "Probation service is currently trying to find a bed and breakfast for him. We are all trying to find the best way forward."

Worton was given an absolute discharge for the breach.