A 40-year-old shoplifter with 238 previous convictions returned to crime after losing only job he ever had

David Wilson is doing well on supervision from his last prison sentence, South Shields Magistrates' Court heard.

Wilson 40, returned to shoplifting after losing the only job he ever had.

"He had never worked," said Heather Bolton, defending.

"He managed to get a job at Unipres which he kept for several months.

"Unfortunately, a change of bus route and timings meant he was late in twice.

"He was sacked which left him short of money.

"He then returned to his old shoplifting ways."

Ms Bolton said Wilson had been doing well on post-sentence supervision after he was sent to prison for previous shoplifting offences.

"He is on a methadone script and is actively looking for work," added Ms Bolton.The court heard earlier Wilson was seen by a member of the public leaving Asda in Boldon carrying a plastic bag containing 10 bottles of spirits.

"The member of the public thought the goods might be stolen," said Rachel Glover, prosecuting.

"A nearby police officer was alerted.

"Wilson was stopped and his bag searched."

Wilson, of Perth Road, Sunderland, admitted theft on June 5.

The court heard he has previous convictions for 238 offences.

Wilson was sentenced to a conditional discharge of 18 months, and ordered to £105 costs.