A DRUG addict turned to crime after a failed relationship led to him using more heroin.

Ian Tarry had been a user for eight years, but it had taken its toll on his family, Worcester magistrates heard.

He had no previous convictions before splitting with his wife, but appeared in court yesterday charged with a string of thefts and bail offences.

Susan Cliff, prosecuting, told the court that, before 1pm on Tuesday, June 4, staff at Evesham's Countrywide Stores reported seeing the defendant and a woman attempt to steal a drill.

"Within half-an-hour, police detected the defendant. He produced a Tool King drill and accessories."

The drill had been stolen from Thompsons, on Bridge Street, Evesham.

Tarry also stole a 100-piece screwdriver set from Safeway and tried to steal clothing from Leading Labels at the Twyford Countryside Park, in June.

Late on Wednesday, July 3, he was stopped by police after a theft at the Esso service station on Cheltenham Road, Evesham, and found in possession of various items stolen from the service station and the nearby Spar shop.

Tarry, aged 28, of no fixed address, admitted six thefts and two bail act offences.

"He's an educated man who got his degree while a drug user," said Martha Recordon, defending.

"In January, he separated from his wife and stepson because she couldn't cope with him taking drugs.

"It had a devastating effect and made him take more than he used to. He started stealing in order to fund his addiction.

"Being remanded in custody was the best thing that could have happened to him.

"He's had the opportunity to come off drugs. He hopes he can patch up his marriage."

Magistrates jailed Tarry for three months for each offence, to be served concurrently.