A GREENOCK man caught stealing a television set in what his own lawyer called a 'clumsy' theft bid told police: "I had to do it."

Brian McPherson, 41, pleaded guilty to taking the item from the Currys store in the Waterfront Retail Park on July 31.

He also stole a £33 bottle of alcohol from Tesco in Dalrymple Street on the same date, as well as taking tools worth £89 from B&Q in Port Glasgow on August 7.

Greenock Sheriff Court heard that the stolen items were not recovered.

McPherson was spared a prison term - but was warned that he faces jail if he fails to comply with his community-based punishment.

A fiscal depute said McPherson entered the Currys store at around 4pm and was observed by staff heading directly to the television aisle.

He picked up a 43-inch TV and made his way towards the pay point.

(Image: Newsquest)

The fiscal depute added: “Witnesses directed the accused to the till to pay.

“The accused said ‘so I will’.

“He then attempted to make off and exit the store with the television in his possession.

“Witnesses caught up with him at Tesco Extra down the street.”

One witness told McPherson: “Give me the TV or I will phone the police.”

McPherson replied: “No. I brought it.”

An off-duty police officer observed the incident and grabbed hold of McPherson until officers arrived.

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On being cautioned and charged, he told police: “I had to do it.”

Defence solicitor Aidan Gallagher said the theft was a reflection of his client’s ‘desperate need for funds’.

Mr Gallagher added: “They are quite clearly clumsy attempts at theft, with no subtlety at all.”

Sheriff James Varney placed McPherson, of Dalrymple Street, on a community payback order with a 12 month supervision requirement.

He was also ordered to carry out 100 hours of unpaid work within that period.

Sheriff Varney told McPherson: “Walking into a Currys store in that manner and simply picking up a television was not the wisest decision.

“If you cannot comply with this order, and you come back and there’s a breach admitted, I will send you to custody.”