A Bristol drug addict who was struggling to look after his friend's dog was caught shop-lifting in Broadmead's Marks and Spencer.

Prosecuting at Bristol Magistrates' Court, May Li said George Gordon, of Stonebridge Park, Fishponds, stole three roasting joints and two sirloin steaks worth £45.49 on September 14.

At about 2.40pm, a security guard who saw him take the meat tried to cross the Horsefair to confront him, but the dog by his side – which he was looking after – "became aggressive".

The security guard called the police, who found syringes in the 35-year-old's bag and jumper pocket.

He also tested positive for cocaine and opiates, the court heard.

The court was told Gordon had been battling drug addiction but had relapsed. He stole the meat to sell for money and when his friend was sent to prison Gordon he also inherited a dog, which he was struggling to look after.

The case was adjourned until October 6 for sentence.