A MAN has been charged with shoplifting and being and drunk in a public place following an incident in Fareham.

Police launched an investigation into an alleged shoplifting incident in Wilkinsons, West Street, on Tuesday night.

Officers conducted a stop and search on a man and items believed to have been stolen from the store were found, as well as what was believed to be Class A drugs, and a small baseball bat.

A Hampshire Constabulary spokeswoman said a 39-year-old man from Knowle in Fareham has been charged with shoplifting and being drunk in a public place. He is due to appear in court on August 6.

He has been released under investigation for possession of drugs, and released with no further action for possession of an offensive weapon.