Three people have appeared in court accused of shoplifting after a spate of reported thefts from supermarkets and petrol stations.

Champagne, cosmetics, baby clothes and meat worth more than £2,000 were allegedly taken from the stores across Folkestone and Hythe between November 12 and January 6.

On Saturday, January 8, 33-year-old David Jones, of no fixed address, was charged with nine counts of shoplifting.

George Phillips, 37, of no fixed address, was charged with six counts.

Lydia Horner, 36, of Victoria Grove, Folkestone, was charged with five counts.

Mr Jones was also charged with driving without insurance, and otherwise than in accordance with a licence, in Cheriton on January 7.

All three appeared at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court on Monday and Horner was released on bail. The case will next be heard at the same court on January 19.