A MAN whose card was declined when he tried to buy cigarettes and tobacco grabbed the smokes and ran off without paying.

Blackburn magistrates heard David Lee Wilson was recognised from CCTV footage and arrested two weeks later.

Wilson 36, of Stansfeld Street, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to theft from YEX Oriental Store, Mosley Street, Blackburn. He was given a conditional discharge for 12 months and ordered to pay £45 compensation and £21 victim surcharge.

Rebecca Seymour, prosecuting, said the shop assistant had the cigarettes and tobacco in her hand when the card was declined. Wilson grabbed the items and ran from the store.

Jonathan Taylor, defending, said there had not been enough money in his client's bank account to pay for the items.

"He has not been in trouble since 2016 and is disappointed with himself," said Mr Taylor.