A BAREFOOT shoplifter stole frozen ready meals from a town centre food store.

Liam McConnell, 29, admitted theft from shop when he appeared at Workington Magistrates’ Court via video link from HMP Preston.

Outlining the case, prosecutor Pamela Fee said McConnell had entered Heron Foods in Whitehaven on March 23.

He took nine frozen meals, concealed them on his person and then left, making no attempt to pay.   

Ms Fee said the defendant was currently on remand for a separate matter.

McConnell, who was not legally represented, said: “It was ready meals. It must have been for food but I can’t say why I did it.

“I was in the middle of Whitehaven with no shoes or socks. I clearly wasn’t in the right mind.

“Obviously, I’m sorry for what happened but it was £18. It wasn’t to gain anything. I didn’t know what I was doing or I wouldn’t be in the middle of the town centre with no socks or shoes on.”

McConnell was fined £40 and ordered to pay £18 in compensation to Heron Foods. He was ordered to pay £85 costs and a £16 victim surcharge.