OFFENDER Carl Brennan was released from jail after a judge heard he had one chance to sort out his life.

The 23-year-old, described in court as "obnoxious, obstreperous, violent alcoholic and a nuisance", was almost six weeks into a four month jail sentence imposed by magistrates sick of his behaviour.

Newcastle Crown Court heard South Tyneside Magistrates jailed Brennan, formerly of Thomas Street, Hetton-le-Hole, after a series of drunken mishaps and brawls.

But Judge Beatrice Bolton, hearing he had been offered an 18-month contract to work as a shipyard lagger, freed him on condition that he stays out of trouble.

Glen Gatland, prosecuting, said Brennan had twice been convicted of obstructing police, had twice failed to surrender to custody, had urinated in public, been drunk and disorderly, and guilty of causing harassment, alarm and distress.

Stuart Graham, mitigating, asked that Brennan be given a a chance.

The judge granted the appeal because she believed the probation services could help.

Brennan agreed to complete an 18-month rehabilitation order, with 80 hours community punishment.