Blackpool shoplifter stole after benefit cut

Hugh Stillie, 55, of Palatine Road, South Shore, pleaded guilty to two offences of theft.

Pam Smith, prosecuting, said Stillie stole £38 of beef from the Church Street store in Blackpool on September 12.

The next day he returned to the shop and took meat valued at £34.

Stillie told police his benefits had been sanctioned and he had nothing to eat.

Hugh Pond, defending, said his client admitted having a bad criminal record.

Stillie had once had a serious heroin addiction.

He had committed crime to fund his habit but he was no longer using heroin.

Stillie was ordered to pay £38 compensation and a £150 court charge by Blackpool magistrates.