A RECOVERING alcoholic's good intentions went to pot when he drank and stole following a row.

Worcester magistrates heard how unemployed Kevin Thompson was driven to alcohol after an argument with his girlfriend.

The 39-year-old, of Tunnel Hill, Tolladine, Worcester, said he had a relapse after not drinking for six months.

Thompson admitted theft of groceries and alcohol worth £21.54 from Sainsbury's in Windermere Drive, Warndon, Worcester.

John Barnett, prosecuting, said Nigel Fox, check-out manager at Sainsbury's, became wary of Thompson when he began acting suspiciously in the store on Saturday, March 16.

"He then selected various grocery items and two bottles of cider without paying for the goods," said Mr Barnett. "Mr Fox pursued him and took him back to the manager's office and the police were called.

"He had consumed alcohol after an argument with his girlfriend."

Mr Thompson, defending himself, apologised to magistrates.

"I am a registered alcoholic, " he said. "I had six months off the beer and it was a relapse. I should be old enough and wise enough, I did a stupid thing."

Magistrates gave Thompson a conditional discharge for two years. They also ordered him to pay £80 costs.