A man who stole a sex toy and magazines from the Nice 'n' Naughty shop in Chester has been handed a fine in court.

Alexandru Ionescu, 61, of Gloucester Street, pleaded guilty at the first opportunity at Chester Magistrates Court on Tuesday, October 1 to two shoplifting offences.

Prosecuting, Laura Ward said it was at about 4.30pm on August 15 when the defendant entered the Boutique by Nice 'n' Naughty shop on Brook Street.

He was observed by the store manager, who then went away to do other duties.

The shop's CCTV was later checked and Ionescu was seen placing a sex toy and magazines into a green backpack, collectively valued at £75.

The following day, Ionescu returned to the shop, where CCTV observed the defendant placing two magazines into his backpack, collectively valued at £20.

Ionescu had no previous convictions.

Defending, Catherine Higham said there had been a prompt guilty plea to the "unusual offence" which had been a "spur of the moment thing".

The court heard Ionescu had no means and had a wife who was aware of the offences and was "perhaps as perplexed" as the defendant was as to why he committed the thefts. Ms Higham asked if a conditional discharge could be imposed as it would be Ionescu's wife who would have to pay costs.

But magistrates said there were two thefts and there had been some planning involved.

Ionescu was fined £120, ordered to pay £95 compensation to Nice 'n' Naughty, and must pay a £48 victim surcharge.