AN ex-soldier had sentence deferred by Burnley magistrates, after admitting a string of car crime in Burnley.

The court was told how Andrew William Monks, 31, who has a drink problem, had gone to stay at the Thomas Project in Blackburn, for six months.

He had been in hospital when an alcohol worker went to see him and told him a place was available for rehabilitation.

The justices were told how Monks had served in the Armed Forces and his problems had continued and followed him.

Monks, of Shorrock Lane, Blackburn, had previously admitted taking a car without consent, diving whilst banned, no insurance and driving with excess alcohol.

The defendant was not in court but his solicitor Sara Lyle said he has been very lucky to get the place at the Thomas Project.

The court adjourned the sentencing of Monks until September 5.