CURBS preventing a nuisance with a drinking problem from entering a village centre have been amended to enable him to collect his daily dose of methadone.

An interim anti-social behaviour order was imposed on 23-year-old Paul Blakelock by North Durham magistrates last week, following numerous complaints from residents and businesses in Murton over his antics under the influence of drink and drugs.

The interim order, to be confirmed at a hearing next month, prohibits Blakelock from an area round the commercial centre of Murton, specifically the shopping parade in Woods Terrace, where many of his activities are concentrated.

He is also forbidden to harass or intimidate anyone, damage or interfere with property or be under the influence of drugs or drink.

Blakelock, who is known locally as "The Shuffler" is also forbidden from domestic driveways, gardens and back yards.

But he appeared before the bench again, sitting in Durham, yesterday, seeking an amendment to the order.

His solicitor, Jaxon Taylor, told the court: "On looking at the implications of the prohibitions, the effect will be that he can't go into Woods Terrace without breaching the order.

"That would prevent him picking up his methadone prescription on a daily basis, and also his only access to money is at the Lloyds TSB bank.

"I've spoken to the police solicitor over a variation to the terms of the interim order to allow him, on a limited basis, to pick up his methadone.

"He only needs a short window to enable him to go to the chemist and to the bank, but all the other prohibitions will apply.

"There will be a certain route by which he can enter and egress the prohibited area.

"Both parties agree with this."

Chris Southey, for Durham Police, said: "We've agreed a route by which he can come into this area, via The Avenue, through a car park and an alleyway, coming out onto Woods Terrace."

The magistrates agreed the application, limiting Blakelock's visits to Whitfield the Chemists and to the Lloyds TSB, in Woods Terrace, between noon and 12.30pm daily.

Blakelock, of Burnip Road, Murton, will come back before the court on April 7, when the full order will be made.