A shoplifter lacked camouflage skills when he was captured on CCTV wearing a bright orange jacket during a thieving spree in Pembroke Dock, a court has heard.

Alex Osbourne, 21, of King William Court, Pembroke Dock, appeared from custody at Haverfordwest magistrates court on Monday.

He pleaded guilty to three charges of stealing razors and cosmetics from Wilkinsons, and one charge of stealing cosmetics valued at £22 from Tesco, Pembroke Dock.

Ellie Morgan, prosecuting, told the court that Osbourne was spotted stealing from the stores on January 28, and February 1, 2 and 4, wearing an orange coat, and was recognised by a police officer who viewed CCTV.

On the fourth occasion, the manager challenged Osbourne and attempted to detain him, managing to keep hold of his coat which contained the stolen items.

In interview, Osbourne told police he had stolen due to problems with his benefits, adding he would ‘rather go to prison and have three meals a day than not eat at all’.

He told officers he panicked and ran, and considered he was ‘borrowing’ because the large super stores could afford for him to take the items.

The court heard that the offences put him in breach of a conditional discharge for a drunk and disorderly charge.

Mike Kelleher defending, said: “I’m no expert in camouflage, but if you wear a bright orange jacket and go shop-lifting, you are bound to get caught. It was not a very sophisticated theft.

Mr Kelleher added that Thomas did not have any money for food at the time as his benefit claim had not been processed.

He said: “He has had to resort to breaking the law and stealing things which could be easily taken and resold to buy food.”

The court heard that Osbourne now had prospective employment and was staying at his mother’s address after a period of sofa-surfing.

Mr Kelleher added: “Although this is a spree of shop lifting, all committed within a short period of time, there is light at the end of the tunnel.”

Magistrates imposed a 12 month community order with a 25 day rehabilitation activity requirement and 40 hours of unpaid work.

He was also ordered to pay £85 court costs and an £85 surcharge.