Two prolific shoplifters have been caught after stealing hundreds of pounds worth of items from major supermarkets.

Lewis O’Brien was charged following several thefts in Queenborough, Gillingham, and Greenhithe, between March 6 and March 12.

The 33-year-old stole multiple bottles of spirits and DIY items worth more than £500, from businesses including B&M Stores, Tesco, B&Q and Asda.

He was identified from CCTV and arrested in Chatham High Street by police constables and later charged with six counts of theft.

In a separate investigation, William Harris was tracked down after he was caught on CCTV targeting shops in Sheerness High Street.

Between, December 20 and March 7, the 54-year-old took food products and confectionary worth more than £370, from Iceland, Co-Op, a newsagent and a clothing shop.

Police officers arrested him on Tuesday (March 12) and also seized a knife he was carrying.

Harris was later charged with six counts of theft and possessing a knife in a public place.

Both men pleaded guilty to all charges at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (March 13).

Harris, of The Broadway, Sheerness, was jailed for 20 weeks and O’Brien, of Richmond Road, Gillingham, was imprisoned for four months. Both were ordered to pay compensation to their victims.

District Commander for Swale, Chief Inspector Di Middlemiss, said: “We are determined to target those persistent criminals who decide payment for items from shops is optional.

“My warning to them is clear - we know who you are and will track you down when presented with evidence of your offending such as CCTV footage.

“You will then be placed before the court and in all likelihood will be serving an immediate prison sentence within days of your arrest.”