GREENOCK'S new The Range store recorded its first shoplifting offence just four days after opening — and the thief is behind bars.

Ross McFarlane helped himself to a £12.99 set of wireless earphones after queueing up outside with customers.

Now a sheriff has locked him up pending a pre-sentencing background after refusing a motion for bail lodged by defence lawyer David Tod.

McFarlane — subject to four bail orders and two deferred sentences regarding other criminal matters — says he went to The Range to buy bread and milk from its in-store Iceland outlet.

But Greenock Sheriff Court heard how a he abandoned an empty shopping basket he'd picked up at the entrance after making a beeline for the technology aisle.

He appeared from custody to plead guilty to theft.

Prosecutor Pamela Brady told the court: "The Range only opened last Thursday.

"The accused was seen by staff and also on CCTV to lift wireless earphones and place them in the front of his trousers.

"He made his way out of the store without paying for them, was stopped by a member of staff and the item recovered.

"It would appear that the store is to be commended for its security measures."

Solicitor Mr Tod said: "I found it strange that he would stand in a queue to shoplift."

Sheriff Joseph Hughes asked: "To stand in a queue, or to shoplift?"

Mr Tod replied: "To shoplift."

He added: "There is an Iceland store within The Range.

"Mr McFarlane has been self-isolating with his grandmother and he'd went there to buy bread and milk and he succumbed to temptation."

Mr Tod sought bail on grounds of his client's complete lack of previous shoplifting offences, the value of the stolen goods and the fact they had been recovered.

He said: "It's been a rush of blood and he's seen the item and taken the items."

Sheriff Hughes deferred sentence until July 1 for a report and remanded McFarlane, of South Street, in custody.

The sheriff told him: "You are on four bail orders and deferred sentences until July 29 and September 1.

"Notwithstanding the comments from Mr Tod, I am not minded to grant you bail."