A MAN stole cash from a weekly payment meter installed in his own home because he needed money to live, a court heard.

Shawn Carr, of Station Road, Darlington, admitted criminal damage and theft when he appeared at the town’s magistrates court yesterday (Tuesday, February 26).

The court heard the 26-year-old had damaged a coin payment meter belonging to Buy as You View – a weekly payment company – after buying a number of electrical items on credit in December last year. He also took £22 out of the meter, which was installed in his own home.

In mitigation Michael Clarke said: "He was short of money and took the money to spend on food."

Magistrates ordered him to pay £272 compensation and £40 court costs.

TRIAL DATE: Mohammed Choudhury, 23, of Corporation Road, Darlington, appeared at Darlington Magistrates’ Court yesterday (Tuesday, February 26) charged with aggravated vehicle taking and property damage under £5,000, using a car without insurance, and driving while disqualified. He denied all three charges and was bailed ahead of his trial on April 26.

HERITAGE WALK: A heritage walk around the Westbrook area of Darlington will take place tomorrow (Thursday, February 28). The free walk will start at 2pm from the Head of Steam museum and will explore the history of the area and its links with the railways.

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