A CONMAN who used a former school friend's identity to set up bank accounts and obtain over £13,000 in loans has been jailed for nine months.

Simon Lockley was desperate for cash to repay drug dealers, Worcester Crown Court heard.

Police were first contacted by the friend, Matthew Churchill, in August 2003 after creditors came knocking at his door.

But Lockley, who fled to Cornwall, was not arrested until June 17 last year, said Peter Parson, prosecuting.

Lockley, aged 27, of Orchid Close, Malvern, admitted obtaining property and services by deception.

Deputy judge Andrew Geddes said he had breached the trust of his friend and caused him considerable worry.

He ordered the defendant to reveal his assets by June 5 for a financial investigation.

Lockley set up the accounts with HBOS and conned the loan company into believing he was working. No checks were made with employers.

Altogether he obtained £13,700 which he used to pay off debts.

He also used his friend's identity to con a letting agency over a house.

The owner contacted police after damage was done to the property - and after his arrest the other crimes came to light. No money had been repaid.

Defence counsel Mark Sheward said Lockley got into debt over his heroin and crack cocaine supplies.

Threats were made to him and his girlfriend whom he had now married. They have a daughter.

Lockley suffered from a form of autism and had undergone a serious skull operation.

Mr Sheward said his condition had left a deficit in his thinking skills when trying to overcome problems.