A migrant stole items from Lincoln's TK Maxx store to "give to his family as presents".

Radaslaw Robert Smiechowski admitted stealing two pairs of boots from the shop, off Tritton Road, and other items from another store.

Marie Stace, prosecuting, told Lincoln magistrates that Smiechowski went into the shop with his mother, brother and girlfriend on Thursday.

While in the footwear department his girlfriend put on some boots, priced £30, and Smiechowski ripped off the security tag.

His brother put on some training shoes, also priced £30, and the group left the shop without paying, said Miss Stace.

After being searched the other items – perfume, a football shirt and bubble bath – were found.

During police interview Smiechowski admitted taking the two pairs of boots saying he wanted to give them as presents to his family.

Smiechowski (27), of Saville Street, St Catherine's, Lincoln, was not represented in court.

Communicating through a Polish interpreter, he said he had no comment to make.

He was fined £100 and ordered to pay £60 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

For more stories from Lincoln's courts, see Saturday's Echo.