A shoplifter who stole clothing worth £31.97 was seen nearby by a police officer, who spotted the haul still had tags on, Burnley magistrates heard.

The court was told the items were returned to Store Twenty One in Nelson. John Jenkins, 39, who had been out of trouble for two years, had felt low and had taken sleeping tablets when he struck on January 7.

The jobless defendant, of Derby Street, Nelson, admitted theft. He was given a six-month conditional discharge and must pay £85 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.