The thief banned from every M&S and Co-op shop in country - but he can still go to the pub

Prolific shoplifter Alex Bingham, aged 31, is banned from 1,038 M&S and 4,000 Co-op shops in the UK along with 3,967 Tesco stores – but he can still go to his local Tesco for essential items and the pub.

Bingham targeted businesses across Gloucestershire and Worcestershire and was jailed for six months in February after he admitted five charges of shoplifting.

The shoplifter, from Gloucester, was also slapped with a Criminal Behaviour Order which will come into force when he is released from prison.

In addition to being banned from supermarkets, he is also forbidden from entering Worcestershire except for travelling through the county in a vehicle or on public transport.

He is banned from any retail premises in Gloucestershire except for pharmacies and post offices.

But he is still permitted to enter any pub, restaurant, fast food outlet and bank.

If caught breaching the CBO, he faces more prison time.

PC Sam Jones, of Gloucestershire Police, said: “Bingham has been a prolific shoplifter across Gloucestershire as well as in Worcestershire and I am hopeful that his sentencing will now bring closure for the business that he has targeted.

“This investigation shows our dedication to targeting shoplifting and we hope that this shows other shoplifters that we will not tolerate their actions.”

In 2016 Bingham was jailed for three years after he was caught red-handed by a traffic warden after stealing gems from an elderly couple’s home.

CRIME: South Yorkshire Police find two children in car with drink driver

LATEST: Misconduct hearing for South Yorkshire Police officer over handling of child rape

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.