DRUG addict Jonathan Clarke, who has 31 previous drugs convictions, has been given a lifeline by magistrates after he admitted possessing drugs.

Clarke, 38, pleaded guilty to possession of heroin, methadone, amphetamines and cannabis resin at his home in Waiblingen Way, Devizes, on March 28.

Clarke told police the drugs found at his home, which included £38 worth of heroin and £11 worth of amphetamines, were for his personal use. He would not say who supplied the drugs.

His home was previously raided by police last September during Operation Ardent, in their crackdown against drugs in Devizes and he appeared in court charged with possession of various drugs.

Kennet Magistrates Court in Devizes heard on Tuesday that despite having 31 previous drugs convictions, which included a three-year term in prison, Clarke had kicked his heroin addiction and was trying to stop using other drugs.

His solicitor Emm Wrench said: "Mr Clarke does not hide from the fact that he is a drug addict and has been for many years.

"This court and other courts have gone through the gambit of punishment. At the moment he would appear, with the help of the agencies, to be at last making some progress.

"He has a drugs counsellor and sees him alternate weeks. He has been able to kick completely his heroin habit. The heroin found by the police in his home was the end of the heroin he possessed.

"He is making substantial strides in getting off the other drugs. For the first time in many years this young man is making a positive attempt to clear himself of drugs and it's working."

The court was told that Clarke was being taken to court by his landlord Sarsen Housing Association, which wants to repossess his home due to rent arrears and his drug taking.

A worker with the Drugs and Homeless Initiative told the court she was hoping to find Clarke new accommodation outside Devizes.

Magistrates imposed a conditional discharge for 12 months and made no order for costs. They ordered the drugs be destroyed. Magistrate Stephen Brazier told Clarke: "You have got a pretty bleak record but we have been impressed by what has been said and we feel you are making definite progress to quit drugs.

"We are trying to support your attempts to get off drugs. One of the functions of the court is to protect the public and if we can get you off drugs that is a major success. It's up to you and your supporters to continue with this."