A 'prolific' shoplifter from Alsager has been jailed after admitting stealing over £1,500-worth of products from shops in Kidsgrove.

Andrew Holland, 41, targeted Tesco and Co-op stores in Kidsgrove between 14-28 July, stealing goods worth £1,523 despite a criminal behaviour order barring him from entering the stores.

Holland pleaded guilty to seven counts of theft from a shop, nine counts of breaching a criminal behaviour order, attempted theft from a shop and common assault.

He was jailed for 18 months at North Staffordshire Justice Centre yesterday (31 July).

PC Megan Griffith, who worked on the case, said: "Prolific offenders like Holland have a significant impact upon the communities and businesses we proudly serve in Staffordshire.

"Local officers are committed to working hard on tackling criminality and taking robust action against any individuals responsible.

"We welcome the sentencing result of the courts in this case and will continue advocating to secure justice for victims."