PERSISTENT shoplifter Paul McCartney re-offended despite being subject to two deferred sentences, a conditional discharge and a community rehabilitation order all imposed for similar offences.

And the chairman of the latest bench to sit on one of his cases told McCartney; "You appear to have dug yourself a hole and jumped in it."

McCartney, 38, of Douglas Place, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to stealing a TV from Woolworths. The case was adjourned until June 2 for the preparation of pre-sentence reports when McCartney will be dealt with for all outstanding matters.

McCartney, who was remanded on bail, was warned that all sentencing options, including custody, would be open to the sentencing bench.

Clare Fanning, prosecuting, said McCartney had 100 previous convictions, the majority of them for shoplifting.

Kevin Preston, defending, said his client was well aware that in passing his century of convictions he had placed himself in a precarious position.