A prolific shoplifter who stole more than £3,300 worth of goods from shops across Devon has been jailed for 86 weeks.

Ian Anderson, 57, of Madrepore Road, Torquay, appeared at Plymouth Magistrates' Court on Saturday, November 7, following a string of offences committed between late September and early November.

The shops targeted included Bridge Motorcycles in Exeter, Wickes and Home Bargains in Torquay, Jack’s Patch garden centre in Bishopsteignton, Boots in Newton Abbot, and Morrisons and Bill Opticians in Totnes.

Items stolen included a motorcycle helmet, plumbing supplies, clothing, reading glasses, chocolate, sweets, suntan lotion, luggage, football cards and perfume.

Anderson's 86-week prison sentence combined new sentences with the activation of recent suspended sentences for other matters.

He was also ordered to pay £1,650 in compensation to the affected stores.

Torquay Sector Inspector Rob Harvey said: “This week is Safer Business Action Week (SaBA), which highlights the ongoing response by police and partners to tackling retail crime in our local communities. We also address anti-social behaviour against staff and other crimes impacting local businesses.

“Anderson being jailed, after a string of shoplifting offences, was a very positive start to the week and we will continue to target those that are causing harm to the retail community. We have further action planned this week and beyond to support them.”

Devon & Cornwall Police is among up to 16 forces in England and Wales set to take part in a new Prolific Retail Offender Pilot announced by the Home Secretary.

The initiative aims to tackle shop theft and abuse against retail workers by identifying around 30 prolific offenders in each participating force area.

Police will work with partner organisations to prevent further offending while addressing its underlying causes.

The Home Office has proposed £2.5 million in funding for participating forces and local partners.

The programme is expected to begin in stages early next year, with full delivery starting in the spring and continuing for 12 months.

Businesses can find crime prevention advice on the Devon & Cornwall Police website, while offences can be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.