A MAN who admitted going with an accomplice to steal £120 of meat from the Co-op has been given a conditional discharge after proving he is willing to change.

Skipton magistrates were told Anthony Archer, 39, of Harewood Road, Keighley, had gone along with a female friend to the store in Main Street, Cross Hills, on June 30.

Prosecuting, Melanie Ibbotson said Archer was seen on CCTV to enter the store which observed him up putting items into a bag held by the female.

They drove off from the store in a vehicle which was traced to the woman’s address. The man and female were inside the property. The meat products were not recovered.

Defending, Keith Blackwell said his client had been troubled with drug addiction in the past but had been out of trouble for over three-and-a-half years.

Mr Blackwell said the restrictions brought about by Covid-19 meant Archer was unable to maintain proper links with counselling services. A weekly drug test was also suspended and he ended up ‘falling from grace’.

“He stole the meat items, which are very saleable, to sell in order to buy drugs. However, he is now in a better place, is not taking drugs and is on Methadone.”

Magistrates gave Archer a conditional discharge for 12 months with £85 costs, a £22 surcharge and ordered him to pay compensation of £60.

The female accomplice was due to face a similar charge but was ill and her case was adjourned.