A MAN'S attempt to stash stolen supermarket goods under a bush was foiled by a police dog handler when he returned to the store for more.

Worcester magistrates heard how Gareth Williams took the items from Sainsbury's, Blackpole, and hid them under a bush.

Mark Soper, prosecuting, said Williams went back inside the store and returned some time later with more stolen items.

"Unfortunately for him a police officer and his dog, which were in the area on an unrelated matter, noticed him," he said.

"The officer saw what he was doing. The defendant tried to run off, but it's fair to say that the officer and the dog had more legs between them, so they caught up with him."

Williams, of Linden Road, Tolladine, admitted stealing the items, valued at £85.39, from Sainsbury's on Wednesday, October 25.

He also admitted the theft of a dog lead, valued at £12.99, from Pets at Home, on Friday, October 20.

Mr Soper said Williams went into the Blackpole pet store and was seen by security staff.

"They stopped him outside," he said. "He was subsequently interviewed and said he took the lead because he was going to sell it for some cash."

Andrew Childs, defending, said the 20-year-old is the subject of a probation order.

"It is only two weeks old," he said. "This is not a very impressive start to the order.

"He's gone back to his family address now. He was working earlier this week but that has finished now.

"Unfortunately these thefts fund a drug-habit, which is part of the problem.

"He says he's not taking drugs at the moment and he doesn't seem to be."

Williams was granted conditional bail while pre-sentence reports are prepared.

He is due to appear before Worcester magistrates again on Friday, November 24.