A YOUNG man tried to walk out of Woolworths without paying for over £100 worth of cuddly toys he had placed in a bag, a court was told.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Warren Melling, who had been watched by store detectives, was stopped and detained outside the shop.

Melling, 21, of Stansfield Street, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to shoplifting.

He was given a conditional discharge for 12 months and the magistrates made no order for costs.

Ian Huggan, defending, said Melling had managed to keep out of trouble since being released from a custodial sentence. "This is a blip and he should be given the opportunity to show the court that is what it is," Mr Huggan added.

"He is trying very, very hard to stay out of trouble."

Mr Huggan went on to say that at the time of the offence, Melling had left home following an argument with his partner.

He found himself in a situation where he had no money at all.