A CONMAN jailed after a spree of deception attempts and theft has lost a bid to have his jail term cut.

A court heard how Shaun Varley, who has more than 70 previous convictions and has served two and a half years behind bars for deception, tried to claim refunds on goods, including televisions, which he had stolen.

The defendant, who struck at various stores and targeted Aldi in Accrington, also went into Darwen police station, claimed he had been followed and threatened, and produced a lock knife.

Varley appeared at Burnley Crown Court where he appealed against a 12 month prison sentence, imposed by Hyndburn Magistrates, but his application was thrown out.

Judge Peter Openshaw, QC, sitting with two justices, said Varley had struck several times on bail.

He said the appellant could have been committed to the higher court for sentence. The judge added that the 12 months was entirely merited and the magistrates had given him credit for his guilty pleas.

He continued: "There is no error of any kind in the imposition of this sentence."

Varley, of Essex Close, Blackburn, had earlier pleaded guilty to allegations of theft, and attempted deception.

The court was told Varley had 71 previous convictions, mostly for shop lifting, but had also appeared in court for grievous bodily harm and wounding.

Tim Ashmole, for Varley, had said the 12 month jail term might be too high in the circumstances and should be reduced.