ANOTHER chronic thief has been banned from entering a large part of Winchester city centre.

Stephen Wilson, 35, of Durngate, admitted a string of shoplifting offences in the High Street as well as possession of a folding lock knife.

Magistrates have imposed a two-year criminal behaviour order that bans him from entering Middle Brook Street between the High Street and St George's Street, and entering the High Street except to visit WH Smith and Boots between 12 noon and 2pm.

David Fosler, prosecuting, told Basingstoke Magistrates Court on Wednesday November 1 that Wilson admitted six offences of theft between July 10 and August 21.

The targeted stores were Boots and Superdrug and stolen were electrical items, including hair straighteners and a hairdryer, and cosmetics. The total value of the stolen goods was £1,269.54.

Wilson was ordered to pay £463 compensation to Boots by January 31 2025.

He is the sixth offender to be hit with a criminal behaviour order in recent weeks as the police target chronic thieves.

Inspector Matt Kirby said: “Stephen Wilson has a history of poor behaviour which has impacted our businesses, shop workers and the wider community.

“Our officers have been really proactive this year in working with retailers to successfully apply for these orders, curtailing the behaviour of our most prolific offenders.

“We will continue to look at all options available to us to relentlessly pursue those who offend in this way.

“Anyone who is affected by anti-social behaviour in the area can contact us via the website or by calling 101.”