A shoplifter with 107 previous convictions for theft has been banned from every bookmaker in Swindon and most of the town's shops.

Christopher DeSantos, of Clive Parade, appeared in the dock at Swindon Magistrates Court on Monday and admitted to four new offences.

The 35-year-old stole electric razors from Asda on April 26, shoplifted goods worth £300 from Vision Express on Regent Street on May 4, took property worth £120 from HMV on May 7, and left B&M Bargains on May 9 without paying for items worth £350.

Emma Hillier, defending, explained that he used to steal to fund a Class A drug habit but was now clean, though he had since developed a gambling problem.

District Judge Joanna Dickens accepted the defence's request to allow DeSantos to visit Premier Stores like the one near his home to buy essentials, then banned him from all other retailers in the town - and every betting shop.

DeSantos jokingly protested, "But I might win one day!"

He also pleaded not guilty to assaulting a woman on May 4 and helping another person steal meat worth £83 from Iceland on April 16.

These two matters will be dealt with on June 10 after CCTV footage is obtained.

DeSantos was released on conditional bail and thanked the judge for not remanding him into custody.