Andrew Marsh (39) from Ross-on-Wye appeared in Hereford Magistrates’ Court yesterday (Wednesday, December 14th).

Mr Marsh had initially been charged with several thefts around Ross-on-Wye, and one assault.

At a previous appearance in Magistrates Court on Thursday, September 15th, Mr Marsh had pleaded guilty to two counts of theft. For the first charge, he was accused of stealing four cans of cider from Spar, to the value of £10. In the second, he was arrested for stealing three pairs of socks from The Original Factory Shop.

However, Mr Marsh had pleaded not guilty to a third count of theft, from Morrisons Supermarket. He was also accused of assaulting a member of staff, while he was being detained.

At his trial on Wednesday, the third count of theft was amended to a charge of an attempted theft. To this, Mr Marsh pleaded guilty.

The charge for common assault was dropped, as no evidence was offered to the court.

Mr Marsh was given a 12 month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £135 court costs, plus £10 compensation to Spar, £6 to the Original Factory Shop, and a £20 victim surcharge.