THE courts have a persistent shoplifter a last chance to avoid prison.

Kell Phra-Band Andrews admitted four thefts from Winchester shops in recent months as well as breaching a community order.

Magistrates in Basingstoke jailed him for four weeks but suspended the sentence for 12 months.

Andrews, 39, of Hyde Gate, Hyde, admitted stealing three packets of sirloin steaks worth £38.97 from Marks and Spencer on July 15; five pairs of men's underwear valued at £182 from Debenhams on August 4; coffee and washing tablets worth £57.70 from Tesco on October 4; cosmetics valued at £171 from the Body Shop on October 5.

Andrews also pleaded guilty to failing to comply with the requirements of a community order by not attending drug group work on August 29 and August 31 or attending other meetings on September 2 and September 9.

Magistrates said a custodial sentence was necessary because of the seriousness of the offences and the breach of a community order.

There is a drug rehabilitation requirement with a monthly review for the next 12 months.

Andrews was also ordered to compensation of £57.70 to Tesco and costs of £15.