A TRAINEE manager at a Blackburn convenience store, caught with £57 worth of goods in the boot of his car, at first claimed he had bought them at Tesco.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Joseph Bux, who was working his notice, eventually admitted stealing from from the Day and Nite store in Pritchard Street. And the court was told that his plea of guilty meant that Bux had spoilt an unblemished record and brought shame on himself and his family.

Bux, 43, of Pasturelands Drive, Billington, pleaded guilty to theft of 24 cans of lager, six bottles of wine, two packets of washing powder, toilet rolls, tea bags and an Indian meal.

The case was adjourned until July 13 for the preparation of pre sentence reports and the magistrates warned that all options would be open to the sentencing bench. Bux was remanded on bail.

Wendy Shackleton, prosecuting, said the offence had come to light after Bux had telephoned the store manager and asked him to come to the store because he had lost a key for a security shutter.

While the manager was there he was approached by a regular customer, who said he had seen Bux removing items from the store and putting them in his car.

Paul Schofield, defending, said it was a clear breach of trust but hoped the magistrates would take the view that the case need not go to the crown court. "There are no previous convictions, it was a one off, spur of the moment incident and really there are no proper reasons I can give for him committing this offence," said Mr Schofield.

"It was completely out of character for a man who, until now, has lived an unblemished life. He is acutely aware of the shame he now brings on himself and his family."

Mr Schofield said Bux wished to apologise to the court and to his former employers. "He had no grievances against them," said Mr Schofield.