A shoplifter has been given a 12-week suspended prison sentence after stealing food worth £205 from an Ipswich Waitrose store.

Francis Mills, of Luther Road, Ipswich, admitted two charges of theft from the store at Crane Boulevard.

Prosecutor Colette Harper said Mills entered the shop at 10am on August 6 and stole a kilo of mackerel, a kilo of braising steak, two packets of chicken and steak. The total value was £73.

The following day the 38-year-old returned to the shop at 9.30am and stole 13 meat products, including chicken, worth a total of £132.

Magistrates were told Mills was caught when he went back to the shop on August 19 and was identified by a member of staff. He tried to run off, but was detained.

The court heard Mills had previous convictions for 68 offences, including 47 of theft.

Dino Barricella, representing Mills, said the shoplifting was born out of desperation at the time.

Mills had been released from prison last December, gained employment and was in a position where he was not taking drugs.

However, he was made redundant on July 17 which sent him into a state of desperation.

Mr Barricella said: “He had no money. He was desperate. He had a partner who was pregnant.

“Very stupidly, because of depression he then goes back to taking Class A drugs and having taken Class A drugs he then commits these offences.”

Mr Barricella described the crimes as a ‘blip’ in Mills’ efforts to steer clear of crime.

Mills’ prison sentence was suspended for 12 months. He was ordered to pay Waitrose £205 compensation and £345 in court fines, costs and charges.