A MAN arrested within 10 minutes of stealing two bottles of champagne from a Blackburn shop had already sold them for £10.

Mark Edward Brown, 44, of Hancock Street, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to theft of two bottles of champagne from the Esso Garage.

He was given a conditional discharge for 12 months and ordered to pay £20 victim surcharge.

Andy Robinson, prosecuting, said when he was challenged by a member of staff Brown became aggressive before leaving the shop.

Jonathan Taylor, defending, said his client denied being aggressive.

"He was confronted and he left as quickly as he could," said Mr Taylor.