Shoplifting charges have been laid against a man, accused of stealing from a Chatham drug store.

Police were called to Shoppers Drug Mart on Queen Street last night and claim the suspect hid several items in his coat before leaving the store.

An officer spotted the accused a short distance away and the 33-year-old was taken into custody following a brief foot chase.

According to police, this was the third time in the past few days the man had stolen from the store.

The 33-year-old is charged with three counts of theft under $5000, possession of stolen property, and escaping lawful custody.