A MAN spent two nights in police cells after stealing a £2.29 can of lager.

And the theft also cost Christopher Costello £130 when he appeared before Blackburn magistrates.

Costello, 55, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to theft from the Can and Bottle Store, Colne. He was fined £80 with £30 victim surcharge.

Parveen Akhtar, prosecuting, said Costello walked into the store at 11.50 am on New Years Eve and selected the can before leaving without making any attempt to pay.

Nick Cassidy, defending, said his client conceded that he had a problem with alcohol.

"In this case he has already spent two days in custody for the theft a can of beer worth just over £2," said Mr Cassidy.