Dad-of-three stole welding kit

James Martin (35) had the equipment after it was taken from an allotment in Burnley.

It was sold on to someone else for about £60, but had been recovered and returned to owner Stephen Hartley, the town’s magistrates were told.

Martin, who has a record, was said to have struck after a relationship broke down. He has now been given a six-month community order, with a 15-day rehabilitation activity requirement.

He was ordered to pay £50 compensation, £85 costs, an £85 victim surcharge and a £20 fine.

The defendant, of Bedford Place, Padiham, admitted handling stolen goods at Burnley, on September 5th.

Mr John Rusius, defending, said Martin was approached by a third party, who suggested he would try and sell the kit and they would split the money. The defendant gained £20.

He added: “It’s something that wasn’t pre-planned. It’s something that happened on the spur of the moment. He is back on track and living with his mother.”