A man who returned to offending after a gap of more than a year blamed personal problems on the ‘blip’.

Desmond Ryan, of Whitehead Lane in Primrose Hill, admitted to the theft of meat from Marks and Spencer in Huddersfield town centre.

Kirklees magistrates were told that the offence at the New Street Store occurred on June 9.

The 58-year-old was seen by staff picking up eight items from the meat counter before trying to leave the store without paying for them.

He was escorted back to the store and the goods were recovered.

Marnat Ali, mitigating, said that his client had an issue with alcohol but managed to remain conviction free for over 12 months.

Kirklees Magistrates' Court, Huddersfield.
Kirklees Magistrates' Court, Huddersfield.

This changed due to difficulties in Ryan’s personal circumstances after his mother became terminally ill.

Mr Ali told the court: “His resolve has been tested due to his personal circumstances but he puts this down to a blip.

“He wishes to remain away from alcohol.”

Magistrates fined Ryan £100 and ordered him to pay £85 costs and £30 victim surcharge.