A THIEF admitted stealing more than £1,000 worth of men’s knitwear.

Luke Clive McKiernan raided the Marks and Spencer store in Hastings.

The 35-year-old stole knitwear and trousers from the town centre store at Priory Meadow Shopping Centre.

Hastings Magistrates’ Court heard how his theft was a “planned offence” and of “high value” items.

In total McKiernan stole £1,400 worth of stock from the shop on September 23, last year.

The court imposed a six-month suspended prison sentence for the crime when he appeared there last month.

McKiernan, of Salisbury Road, St Leonards, was ordered to pay £700 in compensation, which will be taken from his benefits.

He was also ordered to complete 15 rehabilitation sessions with the probation service.