An Isle of Wight shoplifter who stole two key safes from a hardware store is 'at a loss' as to why he did it, a court has heard.

Appearing at the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court on Friday, October 11, Liam Matthews, of Spinnaker Close, Cowes, admitted one count of theft from a shop.

At 4pm on July 22, Matthews entered W Hurst and Son, in Newport and picked up a Smiths digit key safe, valued at £34.50, and a Masterlock key safe, valued at £28.99.

He concealed the items and left the shop, Lauren McConnell, prosecuting, said.

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Matthews, who has nine previous convictions, was identified by CCTV footage, and later interviewed by police.

By committing the offence, Matthews breached a community order given in April for battery, court heard.

Barry Keel, defending, said Matthews gave a prompt guilty plea.

He said the items taken were unusual and his client is 'at a loss' to explain why took them.

Mr Keel said Matthews has memory issues and has been referred for a memory check to 'get to the bottom of it'.

Court heard how he has been working well with probation and his offending manager.

Magistrates said he was a "bit of a quandary", as he is doing well and then does something "foolish".

"Somewhere along the line it needs to stop happening", they said.

Matthews was ordered to pay costs and a fine, totalling £175.49.