Shoplifter stole £53 jar of Manuka honey from South Shields health store
A high-end honey thief has been left stuck with a hefty court bill '“ after being caught in the act by a keen-eyed shopper.
Barry Porter, 37, snatched a £52.99 jar of Manuka honey from Holland and Barrett, in King Street, South Shields before selling on the lucrative item for just £7.
A member of the public who witnessed the raid alerted staff, who spotted the incident on CCTV and informed police.
Porter admitted shop theft at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court.
Peter Farrier, defending, said; “He was daft enough to take the item.
“I thought honey of this price could only be found in Fenwick’s food hall.
Porter, of Beach Road, South Shields, was given a six-month conditional discharge and must pay compensation of £52.99 as well as £85 prosecution costs.