A SHOPLIFTER who stole meat from a supermarket said he did it to buy drugs.

Steven Graham, 40, entered Asda at Dunmail Park in Workington on September 26.

Pamela Fee, prosecuting at Workington Magistrates’ Court, said the defendant was with another male and was placing meat in a rucksack. Further items were placed in a JD Sports bag.

They then left the store, bypassing the tills.

Graham of no fixed abode, Maryport, later admitted stealing the items. He said he had no intention to pay.

The defendant, who was not legally represented, said: “I’m sorry. It was to pay for drugs. I’m seeking help from Unity.”

Graham of no fixed abode, Maryport, pleaded guilty to theft from a shop.

He was fined £40 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £16 victim surcharge.