LESS than a week after being released from prison Alfred Brian Gray was caught stealing from Asda.

And Blackburn magistrates sent him straight back to jail for four weeks for shoplifting and another 12 as part of the unexpired part of his sentence.

A 15-year-old girl, who appeared with him, was bailed to appear before the youth court.

Emma Kehoe, prosecuting, said both were seen by staff in the toiletries aisle where the girl kept watch while Gray loaded bottles of aftershave into a carrier.

Gray, who had just 17p on him when he was arrested, said he intended to sell the goods.

Stephen Parker, defending, said Gray had come to live in Greenways Street, Darwen, with his father after being released from prison with a travel warrant and £50.

"By the time he got to Darwen, he had very little money and he did not want to be a burden on his father," said Mr Parker.

"He is the first to admit that he has not got off to a very good start."

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