A MAN stole hundreds of batteries from a Ferryhill discount store in attempt to pay off a loan shark, a court heard.

Stuart William Butler, of Park Place East, Sunderland, stole Duracell batteries and Oil of Olay creams from in B&M Bargains on Wednesday, October 8, and Wednesday, November 5

Vickie Wilson, prosecuting at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates Court yesterday (Wednesday, October 26), said the 44-year-old had taken 241 packets of batteries and 25 face creams worth £1,129.85 on the first occasion and £26.94 worth of the same products on the second occasion.

Butler, 44, pleaded guilty to two charges of shoplifting, but only admitted taking 20 packets of batteries and seven face creams worth £126 on the first date.

Magistrates heard the difference in amount would not affect the sentence.

Susan Grey, mitigating, said her client had fallen on hard times, adding: “He’s agreed to pay for his daughter’s school trip to Italy but couldn’t afford it.

“He borrowed £500 from a loan shark, but struggled to make the repayments and the amount shot up.

“He was receiving threats and was staying with his cousin who didn’t want trouble at his door so he resorted to shoplifting.”

Magistrates adjourned the case until Wednesday, December 17, for probation reports.