A HEROIN addict who tried to leave a supermarket with a trolley full of goods had now found somewhere to live, a court heard.

Mark Joseph Hulse, 39, was caught attempting to steal items up to the value of £196.87 from the Morrisons on Chester Road, Saltney, at about 5.30pm on October 8.

North East Wales Magistrates Court heard Hulse was detained in the supermarket's foyer and the goods were recovered.

Hulse apologised and said he was going to sell the items to pay for food and electricity.

Rhian Jackson, prosecuting, said Hulse had 60 previous convictions for 136 offences and was in breach of a conditional discharge from January 26 after being convicted of another theft offence when he was caught in B&M Bargains trying to steal a Braun shaver.

Emma Simoes, defending, told the Mold court Hulse had a long history of drug addiction and had been “street homeless” for the last 10 years while he also suffered from a curvature of the spine.

“He is really trying to overcome his addictions and there is a huge change in his circumstances as he has been accepted for emergency accommodation,” said Ms Simoes.

Probation officer Andrew Connah said: "I was impressed by him and he appears motivated as he has reduced his heroin use. This is a big opportunity for him."

District judge Gwyn Jones said: "Your record doesn't do you any favours but I am satisfied you are trying to make progress.

"You're of an age now where things are not as easy as they once were."

Hulse admitted theft and he was given a 12 month community sentence with a six month drug rehabilitation requirement.

He was also ordered him to pay £85 costs and an £85 victim surcharge.