A shoplifter who stole nearly £50 worth of steak and sausages returned to the shop two days later to steal more – but was seen putting the items into his bag.

The incident took place at Home Bargains in Whitehaven on June 30, Workington Magistrates’ Court heard.

Mark Timney, 51, entered the store and placed steaks and sausages, to the value of £49.52, into a carrier bag.

Pamela Fee, prosecuting, said he made no attempt to pay for the items but did pay for a 28p yogurt on the way out.

Two days later, Timney entered the store again and attempted to steal meat to the value of £41.54.

When interviewed by police, Timney admitted he had stolen items from the store. He said he put steaks in the bag and left.

He accepted he had gone into the store with the intention to steal on July 2.

Timney said he had put the items into his bag but took them back out when he knew somebody had seen him.

Sean Harkin, defending, said: “There is some degree of planning. It’s an early guilty plea and admissions at interview.

“This defendant has had input from probation before and didn’t offend while subject to that order.

“He has not got an enviable record but his offending has slowed down.

“There is an ongoing difficulty with drink.”

Timney, of Main Street, Egremont, pleaded guilty to theft from a shop and attempted theft from a shop.

He was fined £120 and must pay £49.52 in compensation to Home Bargains.

The defendant must also pay £85 costs and a £48 victim surcharge.

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