A prolific shoplifter has been ordered not to enter every shop in Norfolk with the exception of two.

Matthew Palmer, 35, was banned from entering any retail premises across the county after admitting a series of thefts at Norwich Magistrates’ Court.

Three of the thefts had occurred less than 48 hours after he had been given a conditional discharge on March 18 for previous shoplifting offences, the court was told. 

They included stealing alcohol from both Roys, Lidl and Grumpy’s store in North Walsham on March 20. 

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Palmer, of William Kett Close in Norwich, also admitted stealing bottles of cider from a branch of the Co-Op in Norwich on March 12.  

Eastern Daily Press: Palmer denies threatening a staff member at Lidl in North WalshamPalmer denies threatening a staff member at Lidl in North Walsham (Image: Newsquest)

However, he pleaded not guilty for threatening a member of shop staff at Lidl in North Walsham on March 20 and will stand trial for that offence on October 24. 

James Landles, mitigating, said he denied his comments had been threatening. 

Magistrates granted bail including a ban from all shops except two in Norwich, Lloyds Pharmacy in West End Street and Savers in Anglia Square.