A SERIAL thief who struck at shops seven times in a 10-week spree has been ordered to undertake rehabilitation activity.

Derek James Lilley, 44, of Stephenson Road, Newton-le-Willows, was sentenced at Liverpool Magistrates' Court on Monday (February 5).

Lilley had pleaded guilty to six thefts and a burglary which took place at stores in Newton-le-Willows between October 25, 2017 and January 4, 2018.

Items taken included 15 tins of tuna and jars of coffee from three separate thefts at the Co-op shop on Park Road South.

Lilley also stole razor blades from Wilkinson's on Market Street, Earlestown on two separate occasions and liquid tablets and deodorants from the SPAR on Newton High Street.

He also entered the Co-op store on Park Road South on October 26 and, as a trespasser, went behind the staff counter and stole a quantity of cigarettes.

Excluding the burglary, Lilley stole £320.90 worth of items during the spree.

He also admitted to failing to comply with a community order by failing to attend probation appointments on September 19 and 25, 2017.

Lilley was given a two-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months and he is required to attend rehabilitation activity for 25 days.

He was also ordered to pay a £115 victim surcharge and £85 in costs to the Crown Prosecution Service.