A PROLIFIC shoplifter has been sent to prison after committing a number of thefts from various businesses across Winsford.

Jason Lee McQuoid, 36, of Pentland Close, appeared at Warrington Magistrates via videolink on November 27, where he pleaded guilty to a string of offences, including failing to comply with the probation service after being released from a previous stint in jail.

The most high profile of the thefts took place on November 4 when McQuoid entered the now closed Rango's restaurant on Delamere Street as a trespasser, where he stole a coffee machine, a jet wash and an internet radio, items which had a total value of more than £2000.

Just two days later, McQuoid also trespassed at Tesco Express where he helped himself to three bottles of whiskey worth more than £50 from behind the till.

He was ordered to serve 18 weeks in prison for the theft from Rango's and eight weeks for the Tesco offence, with each sentence being served consecutively.

The string of thefts began at Aldi on October 7 when McQuoid stole meat, whiskey, coffee and door chimes worth more than £30 before taking two rechargeable products from Wilko with a value of £60 on October 23.

McQuoid returned to both stores in October, stealing a £60 radio from Aldi (October 27) and various cosmetic items from Wilko worth £75 on October 28, with each of the four incidents carrying a three week consecutive sentence.

The thief returned to Aldi twice more during November, where he stole eight advent calendars and 'bubbly Christmas characters' worth over £100, which resulted in two more three week custodial sentences.

McQuoid's spree of thefts finally came to an end on November 18 when he stole a U2 album and book belonging to Rachel Lee to which Magistrates handed him an additional six week term behind bars.

The thefts had all been carried out while McQuoid was subject to post sentence supervision, which Magistrates had factored into their reasoning.

McQuoid had failed to make himself available for a planned telephone appointment on September 29 and didn't attend Northwich Probation Office on October 19.

Having also pleaded guilty to the above charge, McQuoid was handed an additional two week sentence, taking the overall length of punishment to 52 weeks.

Magistrates also ordered him to pay £30 in compensation to Rachel Lee.