A drunken shoplifter at the Tesco store in Cardigan became violent when a security guard apprehended him for stealing two games worth £65 and kicked out at the member of staff.

The incident in January this year had a sequel at the local courthouse when 22-year-old Tony John Gemmer, of 28 Maes Y Deri, Llandysul, who was represented by Aled Owen, pleaded guilty to charges of common assault on Christopher Battinson, theft of two games and disorderly conduct.

A police officer who attended at the store had to take Gemmer to the ground and put him in handcuffs before he was taken to the cells.

Relating this story at the local courthouse Crown prosecutor Susan Crossley said that when interviewed later Gemmer said he could not remember kicking the security guard.

Mr. Owen said Gemmer had a major problem with alcohol and his offending was drink-related.

“When sober he is courteous and polite,” he said.

He was given a Community Order for 12 months and ordered to carry out 50 hours work in the community, ordered to pay £50 compensation to the security guard and £85 towards court costs.