A prolific shoplifter will spend Christmas behind bars after police spotted him raiding a host of stores earlier this month.

Bray Sharpe, 26, of Byron Road, Maidstone, had targeted stores in Maidstone and Medway – walking off with goods worth hundreds of pounds.

But he came unstuck after police followed him after one incident and arrested him.

On December 1, he had entered a clothing store in Week Street, Maidstone, and walked out without paying for a coat worth nearly £300.

Four days later, he returned to the town and stole meat products in The Mall shopping centre.

On December 6, he entered a supermarket in Maidstone Road, Chatham, stole multiple alcohol products and then left by car.

However, he was spotted by police who followed him back to Royal Engineers’ Road in Maidstone.

He was arrested and charged with three counts of theft. Appearing before Medway Magistrates Court this week he pleaded guilty to all offences.

He was immediately sentenced to six months behind bars.

PC Samuel Turner said: “Sharpe is a prolific shoplifter and has received swift justice after being jailed at his first court hearing. He will now be spending his Christmas behind bars.

“These thefts can have a significant effect on local businesses and their losses are ultimately passed onto law-abiding customers. Kent Police is working closely with shops and businesses to prevent retail crime and officers continue to respond promptly to reports of shoplifting, to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.”