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.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here