A PAINTER and decorator from Kelso has admitted stealing £900 worth of jewellery while working in a house.

Pensioner Terry West of Mansefield Court, pleaded guilty at Jedburgh Sheriff Court to the offence which happened on May 21 at a house in the Tofts area of Kelso.

The court was told that the £900 worth of jewellery, owned by an elderly lady, was recovered.

But there was also £20 in cash which went missing.

Defence lawyer Ross Dow said his client had suffered "shame" and "embarrassment" because of the offence.

He said 68-year-old West had lost his job as a result..

Mr Dow said the offence came around because of West's gambling addiction.

Sheriff Peter Paterson imposed a 15 month community pay back order with supervision.

He also ordered West to pay £300 compensation to the house owner to "reflect the upset and trauma" she experienced.