SHOP staff chased a thief along a Trowbridge street after spotting him bundling goods out of the store.

Magistrates heard how John Trott, 35, of Timbrell Street, Trowbridge was seen stealing a £25 pair of boots out of Priceless Shoes, Fore Street. An assistant chased him after the alarm sounded, but Trott escaped.

Trott admitted theft and asked for a second theft to be taken into consideration.

Michelle Hewitt, prosecuting, said Trott had stolen a pair of brown boots from Shoe Zone two weeks after his first theft.

Police spotted Trott in Castle Place where he was arrested.

They searched his home, found the stolen boots and charged him with theft.

Magistrates heard Trott had previous convictions for similar matters.

Probation officers were asked to carry out pre-sentence reports. Trott was released on unconditional bail to reappear at North West Wiltshire Magistrates on April 4.