A man who broke into a hardware store and stole sets of power tools has appeared in court.

Daniel James Place was charged at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court with entering B & Q in Bishop Auckland on November 18 and stealing four boxed power tools valued at £310.

The 44-year-old of Leazes Lane, St Helens, Bishop Auckland, pleaded guilty to the offence. 

He was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison, suspended for 12 months. 

Magistrates noted the seriousness of the case and the fact that he had recently been released from custody and had a significant record.

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The defendant must comply with requirements within the supervision period of 12 months, including participating in any activity as required by the responsible officer up to a maximum of 32 days.

He was also ordered to pay a surcharge to fund victim services of £154. An application was made for benefit deductions to cover the sum. There was no order for costs.