A EVESHAM man who admitted being involved in the theft of more than £8,000 worth of diamond rings from a jewellers, is to be sentenced at Worcester Crown Court.

Andy Smith, aged 24 from Rynal Place, was told last Friday by deputy district judge Huw Jenkins, who was sitting at the city's magistrates court, that his powers were not sufficient enough to sentence him sufficiently.

"This case is far too serious to be dealt with in this court," said Mr Jenkins.

The deputy district judge also took into consideration the defendant's criminal record in making his decision to send him to the Crown Court in Worcester for sentencing.

Douglas Marshall, prosecuting, told the court that staff of F Hinds in Bridge Street, Evesham saw Smith just hours before the theft on Wednesday, April 20, hanging about outside the premises in the town.

Following the theft, police officers found Smith hiding in the wardrobe of a property in Albert Road after being called there by a witness.

The tray of diamond rings, valued at £8,640 was recovered and returned to the store.

During interview Smith accepted his involvement in the crime.

He is due to be sentenced at the Crown Court on Friday, June 10.

He was released on bail until that date.