Burnley Crown Court heard Christopher Ibbitson (27), who had a drink problem, stole lager from the Co-op late shop in Colne and was arrested because of his distinctive dog.

The defendant, who earlier targeted an 86-year-old relative, also struck in Skipton, helping himself to vodka.

Ibbitson, making his 21st court appearance, admitted attempting to pervert the course of justice, two thefts and attempted theft in June and asked for an offence to be considered.

The defendant, of Hawley Street, Colne, was given an 18-month community order, with 12 months supervision.

Judge Simon Newell told Ibbitson the courts had given him opportunities and he was giving him another, as he had stayed out of trouble for periods, even though he had gone off the rails in recent months.

Miss Sarah Statham (prosecuting) said the defendant was caught on CCTV in the shop with a distinctive dog. A police officer in Colne centre saw Ibbitson with the dog, recognised him and arrested him.

Although he gave police a false name, a fingerprint from the fixed penalty notice he was issued led to his arrest.

Ibbitson had 32 previous convictions, many for theft, and was subject to a 12-month community order when he committed the offences. He was also in breach of a 120-day prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, imposed after he entered the relative's house and stole.

Mr John Edwards (defending) said Ibbitson had not been to prison before. He had spent five-and-a-half weeks on remand and it had been an eye-opener. "His whole thinking is to get back to work," he said.