A MAN stole perfume from a Worcester shop because he could not afford food for his disabled partner.

Andrew Peckham admitted stealing three bottles, worth £49.97, from TK Maxx on Saturday, May 23, when he appeared at Worcester Magistrates Court.

Sarah Stock, prosecuting, said he was spotted by the store detective on CCTV and apprehended when he tried to leave with the concealed bottles.

Peckham, of Back Lane South, off the Tything, told police he committed the crime because he had to pay for electricity and food but only had 43p to last the week and had to care for his disabled partner.

Andy Childs, defending, said his 44-year-old client had a long history of drug use but this was not the reason for this particular theft.

“He tells me he has not used drugs for a year and his partner the same,” said Mr Childs.

“His partner is disabled and has to eat regularly otherwise her medication does not work. There was no money on the week in question and he could not feed himself or his partner.”

Deputy district judge Bruce Morgan raised concerns that Peckham – who had 127 previous convictions – might be returning to a life of crime and deferred sentence until Friday, October 28.