A man claimed he stole to survive after he was left homeless and without benefits.

Blackburn Magistrates' Court heard Gatis Stepans committed a string of shoplifting offences which prompted the prosecution to ask for him to be banned from certain stores.

Stepans, 32, of no fixed address but from Blackburn, pleaded guilty to theft of candles from TK Maxx, perfume from Boots and three charges of theft from Asda.

He was made subject to a community order for 12 months with a 25-day rehabilitation activity requirement and ordered to pay £167 compensation to Asda and a £114 victim surcharge.

He was made subject to a limited activity order which prohibits him from entering Asda, Boots or TK Maxx for 12 months.

Jonathan Taylor, mitigating, said his client was having issues with accommodation and employment and was unable to claim benefits.

“He is carrying out these relatively minor offences but they are accumulating,” said Mr Taylor.

“He would welcome the chance to engage with the Probation Service and hopefully they can help him through this difficult period.”