A shoplifter who stole washing up tablets from a  budget store was “struggling for money” because a building society closed his account after he came out of prison.

Liam Shepherd, 36, entered B&M in Maryport on October 7  and took six boxes of Bold washing up tablets, Workington Magistrates’ Court heard.

Pamela Fee, prosecuting, said the defendant then left the store, making no attempt to pay.

He was seen by a member of staff who reported the theft and a police officer located him in Maryport.

Shepherd was asked his name by the officer and had replied, “Mark, why?” He then ran away into a forest and the police officer managed to catch up with him.

He tried to put hand cuffs on him but the defendant ended up being pava sprayed.

The stolen items worth £51 were not recovered.

During interview, Shepherd stated he had been struggling for money since leaving prison.

Claire Kirkpatrick, defending, said: “He made full admissions to police at interview. He came out of prison in February.

“He’s had a number of difficulties since. He has been in and out of hospital.

“After he had come out of prison, Cumberland Building Society told him he wasn’t a suitable person to have a bank account anymore and closed his account.

“For a while he was asking friends and family. They had supported him as much as able. He feels bad that he is back before the courts.

“He is ashamed of his behaviour. He has benefits in place.”

Shepherd, of Mulgrew Close, Maryport, pleaded guilty to theft from a shop and obstructing or resisting a police officer.

He was fined £80 and must pay £85 costs and a £32 victim surcharge. He must also pay £51 in compensation to the store.

MORE FROM COURT: Drug-driver on wrong side of the road caused crash