A BARMOUTH man who stole alcohol from a Machynlleth shop had gone on a “drinking binge” shortly beforehand, magistrates have heard.

Peter Collins, of Y Bryn, St John’s Hill, pleaded guilty to theft from the Spar store on 9 April when he was seen to walk out of the shop with alcohol.

Kevin Challinor, prosecuting, said Collins, 49, was seen to pick up a £5.29 bottle of alcohol before putting it down near a till and then leaving the shop. However, Mr Challinor said Collins returned shortly afterwards and picked up the bottle before leaving the store with it. He was arrested nearby but the bottle was not recovered.

Defence solicitor Janem Jones said Collins had been remanded in custody by police after his arrest before appearing in court.

She said Collins had struggled with alcohol issues in the past, but had been receiving assistance which had helped him.

However, Ms Jones said Collins had gone on a “drinking binge” in the days leading up to the offence.

She said: “He feels he’s let everybody down by going on this drinking binge.”

Collins was given a six-month conditional discharge. He was also ordered to pay compensation to the shop of £5.29 and costs of £105.