A THIEF who went shoplifting to pay his fuel bills after his benefits were stopped has been spared jail.

Bolton Crown Court heard how Steven Roberts was already subject to a suspended prison sentence for selling heroin to undercover police officers and part way through a conditional discharge for theft when he was caught stealing a Hugo Boss gift pack, worth £43, from Boots on November 3.

And whilst on bail for that offence, he stole seven jars of coffee, valued at £35 from Tesco Express at Wigan Road, Deane on November 23.

Alistair Reid, prosecuting, said Roberts told police he had no money to pay for his electricity and gas as his benefits had been stopped for two weeks and he had planned to sell the stolen goods to get cash.

Recorder Eric Lamb sentenced Roberts to one month in prison, suspended for 12 months and he will be subject to a 8pm to 8am curfew for six weeks.

Roberts, aged 47, of Thornbank North, Deane, will also have to undertake drug treatment and a rehabilitation activity for 20 days.