A SHOPLIFTER has been handed a community order after targeting two business in one day.

Timothy Jeal, of Cemetery Road in Rhos, appeared at Wrexham Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

The 35-year-old admitted that on August 14, he stole alcohol worth £23 from the Co-op and a bottle of wine worth £8.49 from Tan Y Clawdd Garage - both located in Johnstown.

Prosecutor Rhian Jackson said the goods were not recovered in either theft, and the defendant was the subject of a community order at the time.

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He has 14 convictions for 24 offences, she added.

Alun Williams, defending, said it appeared his client had been complying with the terms of the community order and associated drug rehabilitation requiement.

He explained: "He is very honest to say that the methadone script he's on is holding him regarding his opiate addiction."

However Mr Williams said recent bereavements and traumas had seen the defendant turn to alcohol use.

The offences before the court were committed in drink, he added.

Probation officer Andrew Connah told the court there is still rehabilitative work which can be done with Jeal.

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District Judge Gwyn Jones handed down a standalone community order of six months for the two thefts, with a further six-month drug rehabilitation requirement.

Jeal was ordered to pay compensation back to the businesses to the value of the stolen alcohol, as well as £85 costs.

The Judge told Jeal he took on board things had been difficult for him in recent times, and urged him to take the help offered.