A WORCESTER man who tried to patch up his relationship with his long-lost mother turned back to heroin and crime when it did not work out, magistrates have heard.

Worcester magistrates gave Joseph Stephens four months to get his life back on track when he appeared in court in April, but the 23-year-old broke all four conditions imposed.

The court heard Stephens, of The Hopmarket, Worcester, was originally in court for theft of a child's jacket from BHS on Saturday, January 5.

In a police interview, Stephens said he intended to sell the jacket to buy drugs.

At Worcester magistrates court in April, the case was deferred.

"It was to enable my client to show he could keep off heroin, find employment, not commit further offences and build up the relationship with his mother," said Martha Recordon, defending.

"He had found her after a period of 17 years. It was hoped it would stabilise him.

Difficult

"It's been very difficult for him.

"He lived with his mother, stepfather and stepbrother but he admits he had high expectations from the relationship."

The court heard they both had difficult issues to deal with and Stephens moved out.

"It's hoped that in time the relationship will blossom," said Miss Recordon.

The court heard Stephens had a "kneejerk" reaction to moving out, reoffended and went back on heroin.

He stole meat valued at £11.94 from Kwik Save in Angel Street on Thursday, June 6.

Stephens admitted two charges of theft and two bail act offences.

Magistrates ordered he complete a two-year community rehabilitation order.

He was also ordered to pay £100 costs and compensation of £11.94 to Kwik Save.