A GREENOCK thief acted on ‘impulse’ to steal two bottles of scent from a town centre shop.

But there was no sweet smell of success for multiple-offender James McGill as he was quickly caught and found himself hauled into court.

Prosecutor David Simpson explained how McGill stole a bottle of Calvin Klein ‘Dark Obsession’ aftershave and a bottle of Chanel ‘Chance’ perfume on 28 November.

Asked about the value of the products, the fiscal depute replied: “I’m sorry but I’m not familiar with the exact fragrance prices.” McGill, 36, helped himself to the items during a pre-Christmas shoplifting raid at the Boots store in the Oak Mall.

Remarking on his client’s product choice, defence lawyer Aidan Gallagher said: “It can be said that he certainly took a chance.” The solicitor added: “The thefts were impulsive on his part.

“The bottles were display ‘testers’ and both were recovered.

“He has a record that he can’t be proud of which is fairly extensive with a number of analogous convictions.

“The court is entitled to consider a custodial sentence in this case.” McGill had earlier pled guilty to helping himself to the items, with sentenced deferred for background reports.

The court heard that he carried out the thefts while on bail regarding another criminal matter.

Lawyer Mr Gallagher said: “Mr McGill has co-operated fully with the reports.” Sheriff Ian Fleming, left, told McGill: “It says in the report that you want to make a fresh start and don’t want to go to prison.

“But if you keep on stealing things that is exactly where you will go.” McGill, of the Inverclyde Centre, was placed under supervision within the community, coupled with a 12-month alcohol treatment programme.

Sheriff Fleming told the thief: “This is a direct alternative to custody.”