It was a case of third time unlucky for a sunglasses thief after eagle-eyed staff spotted him returning to steal again.

Blackburn Magistrates' Court heard Anthony Preece had got away with designer sunglasses on two visits to Specsavers in The Mall Blackburn on June 29 and July 1.

When he went back a third time he was recognised and detained by Mall security staff.

Preece, 51, of Preston New Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to two charges of stealing sunglasses worth £150.

He was made subject to a community order for six months with a 10 day Rehabilitation Activity Requirement, and ordered to pay £300 compensation.

Victoria Forrest, prosecuting, said on both occasions Preece had entered the shop towards the close of business.

He was trying on various pairs before leaving without paying for a pair he had concealed in his clothing.

"He was located because he went in again two days later, again at the end of the day," said Miss Forrest.

"This time staff recognised him from CCTV footage of the earlier offences and security were alerted."

Miss Forrest said Preece had not been before the courts since 2012.

Jonathan Taylor, mitigating, said he had been very surprised to see his client back before the courts.

"It was my understanding that the days of offending were behind him and you have heard he has not been in trouble for 12 years," said Mr Taylor.

"He has to accept he has got involved again but he does not want that to be the case in the future."