A man who strolled out of the Tesco store in Milford Haven with nearly £200 worth of unpaid goods said to staff: "It's not mine it's my mate's," a court has heard.

Lee Davies, of Flat 25, Lower Hill Street, Milford Haven, pleaded guilty to a charge of theft at Haverfordwest magistrates court yesterday (Tuesday).

Prosecutor Ellie Morgan said security staff at the store noticed Davies walking out with the trolley on the evening of Friday, January 29th.

After he was confronted, Ms Morgan said Davies told staff: "It's not mine it's my mate's. Stuff it, you can have it."

She said Davies, aged 35, then walked away towards the docks and was later located by police on Victoria Road.

"Upon being interviewed he admitted he had taken the goods but said he didn't know what his intention was.

"He claimed to have drank two three litre bottles of strong cider."

She added the stolen goods amounted to £177.08.

Defence lawyer Gareth Phillips said his client's life in recent years amounted to "quite a sorry tale."

He said in recent years Davies' marriage had broken down, he had been forced to give up his job for health reasons, and had been living on friends' sofas.

He said although his client now had a home, it was a damp flat and in such a state that he couldn't allow his daughter to visit it.

"He is currently on medication as he has been suffering from anxiety and depression," said Mr Phillips.

Phillips, who has had two previous cautions for shoplifting, was ordered to pay £130 in fines and costs. Magistrates accepted Davies' offer to pay the sum at a rate of £5 per week.