A PROSECUTOR turned to Google to resolve a dispute over the value of a toothbrush.

Blackburn magistrates heard Martin McAllister had originally been charged with theft of an electric toothbrush worth £300.

The charge was amended to read "of a value unknown" after Gareth Price, defending, questioned the £300 price tag.

But Tracy Yates, prosecuting, told the court she had since Googled the brand and the value of £300 was correct.

"The item was recovered so there is no issue over compensation," said Mrs Yates.

McAllister, 35, of Hanson Street, Great Harwood, pleaded guilty to theft of an Oral B Genius X toothbrush from Boots.

He was made subject to a curfew between 9pm and 7am for three months and ordered to pay £90 victim surcharge.

Gareth Price, defending, said in the past his client had offended to fund his drug habit but the latest offence was committed to finance his move into his own accommodation which he was finding difficult.

"He had no idea the toothbrush he took had the value you have heard about, if indeed it did," said Mr Price.

The Oral B Genius X has a recommended retail price of £339. It boasts artificial intelligence which tracks where you are and are not brushing your teeth.