A NOTORIOUS thief who was caught with a “shopping list” of items to steal has been electronically tagged.

Prolific Mark Davies was seen on CCTV stealing hundreds of pounds worth of high-end spirits on CCTV during his “stealing to order” spree at Waitrose, in Chandler’s Ford.

Stashing the alcohol underneath groceries in a shopping trolley, the 56-year-old left the store with the goods.

But because of his extensive criminal past, Davies was recognised and arrested by officers.

Southampton Crown Court heard Davies had a shopping list of goods people wanted him to steal so he could pay off rent arrears and debts.

James Kellam, prosecuting, told the court Davies was “notorious” and had been spotted stealing throughout the country.

Mr Kellam said: “This is similar to all the thefts and shoplifting incidents he has been convicted of. He is prolific.”

Davies has 36 previous convictions for 92 offences.

In April he was sentenced to a community order for stealing but this time Judge Christopher Parker QC handed Davies an eight month term of imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, and a curfew.

Caroline Stewart, mitigating, told the court Davies had turned back to shoplifting after going straight from 2013.

In August last year, Davies was injured in a car accident which left him unable to continue training to be a coach driver.

Davies, of Argyll Road, Bournemouth, pleaded guilty to theft.