A MAN made racist comments when he was challenged by security staff as he tried to steal alcohol from a supermarket.

Blackburn magistrates heard John Holt made comments about Mohammed and Allah and accused the officer of coming into his country and taking jobs.

Holt, 53, of Jays Properties, Bolton Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to racially aggravated threatening behaviour and attempting to steal a bottle of alcohol from Morrisons.

He was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison suspended for 12 months.

He was ordered to pay £50 compensation, a £115 victim surcharge and £85 costs.

Parveen Akhtar, prosecuting, said Holt was seen putting a bottle of booze down his pants and was challenged by staff.

"He started shouting racist abuse and was detained until the police arrived," said Miss Akhtar.

Richard Prew, defending, said his client, a chronic alcoholic, had an extensive record which would always count against him.

"He has been out of trouble since August which for him is a fairly lengthy period of time," said Mr Prew.

"There is no suggestion he went towards the security staff or tried to assault them although he has little recollection of the incident."