A DRUNKEN man breached his anti-social behaviour order 12 hours after being released from a young offenders institute, a court has heard.

Peter Clegg, 21, of Blacon, left Thorn Cross Young Offenders Institute in Warrington on the morning of February 16 but, following anti-social behaviour out-side the Spar stores in Western Avenue, Blacon, found himself back in custody by 9.30pm.

The arrest marked Clegg's third breach of the order (ASBO), originally imposed in May, 2003, in response to a string of anti-social offences.

Sentencing him to serve the 152 days remaining on his original 10 month sentence, and an additional three months, at Chester Crown Court on Monday, Judge Clarke told Clegg 'it's now up to you whether you behave or not'.

Andrew Green, defending, described how after being released Clegg's 'first stop was probation, second stop the pub', where he drank until that evening.

Police arrived at the Spar shop after receiving reports of youth disturbance shortly after 9pm, at which time Clegg was spotted among a group causing problems.

After approaching the gang the officers said Clegg walked away and was verbally abusive.

After being warned about his language Clegg swore again.

Making his way into the Spar shop, Clegg slammed down a fistful of change on the counter in front of the lone female cashier and swore when asking for a can of lager.

Following a final warning Clegg, who later said he had no recollection of the drunken incident, was arrested after again swearing at the officers.

Mr Green, who described Clegg's history of offending as the result of his 'immaturity, boredom and an abuse of alcohol', told the court an offer of employment had been made to his client that would ensure his temporary removal from the Blacon area.

Judge Clarke said of the sentence: 'ASBOs have to actually mean something. When the order is breached the court has to show that the order has teeth.'

Judge Clarke also acknowledged the challenges faced by individuals on the orders.

He added: 'The problem with ASBOs is people have to return to the area where the trouble began and as soon as they are back the curtains start twitching.

'They effectively become a marked man.

'However, the community has to understand the breaches will be dealt with in a severe way.'