A DRUG user has been bailed by magistrates to enable him to seek help for his addiction.

Lee Shearer appeared before Worcester magistrates yesterday charged with thefts from city shops.

"On Monday, June 17 at 3.20pm he was observed going into the children's section of British Home Stores and concealing packets of children's clothing," said Sally Hill, prosecuting.

Shearer, aged 24, was arrested and bailed by police to attend court next week, but the following day he carried out another shoplifting spree.

"At 12.30pm he went into Boots and proceeded to put 20 packets of Gillette razor blades under his coat," said Miss Hill.

"He has an appalling record of some 69 offences and this year he's already received three custodial sentences."

Shearer, of Albert Street, Droitwich, admitted theft.

"The record hides the real problem, which is a regular drug habit," said Andrew Childs, defending.

Magistrates granted Shearer conditional bail while waiting for pre-sentence reports, provided he attends a drug centre.

He will be sentenced on Tuesday, July 9.