A MAN has been charged in connection with two shoplifting offences at New Milton supermarkets. 

Richard Albert Wrate, 30, of no fixed address, was arrested on Lymington Road, Christchurch on Friday, January 26, following two reports of shoplifting. 

Hampshire Police have said they were alerted to thefts earlier this month, including an alleged theft at the Morrisons convenience shop on Station Road, New Milton on Monday, January 15. 

The other incident reportedly happened at Marks & Spencer, also in Station Road, on Tuesday, January 16. 

Wrate has been released on conditional bail. 

He is next due to appear at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, February 27.