A MAN who stole a handbag, purse and cash in two ‘sneak’ thefts from pubs in Weston has been remanded in police custody after appearing in court.

Michael Mullins, aged 46, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to two counts of theft when he faced magistrates at North Somerset Courthouse last Thursday.

Prosecutor Ian Dowes told the court how Mullins stole a handbag, a purse, cash and a mobile phone belonging to Doreen Owens on June 16 and the next day stole a purse and its contents, including £70 cash, which belonged to Muriel Burton.

Mr Dowes said: “It is a sneak theft, items are taken while the victim is not looking, when handbags are draped on the back of chairs.

“He was caught not long after the second theft. The items were all recovered in a public toilet.”

Speaking in court Mullins said: “I would like to apologise.

“I came to Weston 10 years ago and I was clean for 10 years.

“This year I have gone through some extreme personal circumstances in my marriage.

“It led me to relapsing and when I relapsed I offended.”

Mullins was remanded in custody while a pre-sentence report is prepared. He is due to be sentenced on July 2.