A SERIAL shoplifter faces the very real prospect of being jailed when he next appears before Isle of Wight magistrates. 

Jason Blake admitted six counts of shoplifting, at Tesco Express, Ventnor, last year between August 23 and October 31, when he appeared at the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court on November 15.

He stole items that included predominantly alcohol, with a total value of £764.05, with items valued at £148.50 recovered.

Magistrates ordered a report on him, but Blake never attended any appointments.

Due for sentencing on Friday, January 5, he failed to attend, triggering a warrant for his arrest.

But between January 3-7, while still at large, Blake committed four more shoplifting offences — again at Tesco Express (three times) and at the Central Stores supermarket (once).

Items stolen included beer, steak, cheese, chicken drumsticks, Pringles and Frutella sweets. 

Blake admitted the additional charges when he was produced in court last Tuesday, January 9.

For Blake, Michael McGoldrick said: "He has led a chaotic lifestyle, with alcohol and accommodation issues.

"He lost his mother and grandmother, seeking solace in alcohol, but there's no excuse for his behaviour."

Magistrates reordered a report, covering all sentencing options, including imprisonment.

Blake was bailed for sentencing on February 23.