Stuart Astley, 43, of no fixed address, has been banned from every B&M store in the United Kingdom after a shoplifting spree in Skelmersdale. He was arrested on Monday, June 29, 2026, following the theft of coffee, laundry products, and packets of meat from six shops across the town.
Charges and Court Appearance
Astley was charged with six counts of theft from a shop and three breaches of a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO). He appeared before Preston Magistrates Court on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, where he pleaded guilty to all charges. The court sentenced him to 14 months in prison.
The CBO, which remains in place until July 2027, prohibits Astley from entering any B&M store in the UK. He is also banned from entering Tawd Valley Retail Park in Skelmersdale, including any shop footpath, as well as Home Bargains and Farm Foods in the Concourse Shopping Centre, Skelmersdale, and Asda in Ingram, Skelmersdale. Additionally, he is not allowed to remain on any retail premises if asked to leave.
Police Response
PC Rebecca Birchall from West Lancashire’s Neighbourhood Policing Team commented on the case: “Shoplifting is not a victimless crime. It has a significant impact on businesses, their staff and the wider community.” She added, “Despite being subject to a Criminal Behaviour Order designed to prevent him from causing further distress to local businesses, Astley chose to ignore those restrictions and continue committing thefts.”
PC Birchall welcomed the sentence, stating: “We hope it sends a clear message that persistent offenders who repeatedly target local businesses and breach court orders will be brought before the courts and held accountable for their actions.”
Operation Vulture
The case is part of Operation Vulture, Lancashire Police's initiative to tackle shoplifting across the county. The operation aims to reduce retail crime and support businesses affected by theft.
