A MAN described by a judge as a "professional shoplifter" has been given a chance to avoid prison by continuing his drug treatment.

Calvin Lennon was spotted on security CCTV at Debenhams in the Kingfisher Centre, Redditch, as he stole £97 worth of perfume and after-shave.

He was arrested on August 16 as he left the store, said Michael Conry, prosecuting at Worcester Crown Court.

Lennon, aged 30, of Batheaston Close, Kings Norton, pleaded guilty to theft and was given a 12-month community order with 12-months supervision by the probation service.

Judge Michael Cullum, who said Lennon appeared to have a professional attitude towards shoplifting, said he should complete a six-month drug rehabilitation course and also try to curb his gambling habit.