A BRAZEN Greenock shoplifter swiped sandwiches from the chilled counter of a town centre store and ate them on the premises — then piled an array of merchandise into a carrier bag and strolled out.

Thief Ross Thompson assaulted a security guard as he was confronted moments later before declaring in foul-mouthed terms: “Leave me alone — I’ve not done anything.” The sheriff court heard how Thompson — who has a ‘significant’ criminal record — helped himself to a manicure kit, a quantity of cosmetics, a toy, a wireless computer mouse and a keyboard.

Prosecutor Lindy Scaife said: “He was observed to be acting suspiciously and was seen to take sandwiches from a refrigerated unit, eat them and drop the empty packet on the floor.

“He went on to remove various items from shelves and placed them into a carrier bag.” Shameless Thompson, 30, grinned as the list of items he stole from the Wilko shop in the Oak Mall on 5 January was read out by Sheriff Craig Turnbull.

Fiscal depute Ms Scaife said: “The accused then left the premises and was followed by the 27-year-old security guard.

“He went back to the store with the guard, where he struck and scratched him.

“The guard sustained superficial scratches and no medical attention was required.

“The value of the property, minus the eaten sandwiches, was £41.86.” Defence lawyer Brian Holliman told the court how Thompson — released from a jail sentence nine months before his Wilko offences — left North Ayrshire last year to ‘make a fresh start’ in Inverclyde.

The solicitor said: “He is all too aware that his record does him no favours.

“He is the registered carer of his partner who is currently undergoing chemotherapy for cervical cancer.” The Telegraph told earlier this month how Thompson, of Greenock’s Broomhill Way, was remanded in custody in connection with the shoplifting and assault charges.

Lawyer Mr Holliman said: “Mr Thompson suffers from long term post traumatic stress and is being seen by a psychiatrist at Low Moss Prison.

“He has a number of issues in his life which could be addressed within a community environment.” Sheriff Turnbull deferred sentence for various background reports.

Thompson, who was further remanded, is due to return to court on 11 February.