A PROLIFIC shoplifter has been banned from every self-service store in Burnley.

Blackburn magistrates imposed a criminal behaviour order on Stephen Peter Hoskin after hearing he is currently serving a prison sentence for 10 offences of shoplifting.

Under the order Hoskin, 45, of Thorn Street, Burnley, is banned from entering any self-service store in the town centre or on the surrounding retail parks and the Spar shop on Todmorden Road.

Adrian Hollanby, prosecuting, said the order was necessary to curtail the defendant’s repetitive offending.

“He has become a nuisance to shop owners and their staff,” said Mr Hollanby.

Nick Dearing, defending, said Hoskin’s problems related to his use of class A drugs and the need to steal to fund his habit.

“He accepts he has stolen repeatedly from these shops over recent years and doesn’t oppose the order,” said Mr Dearing.