A MAN has admitted stealing a large number of cigarettes from an Evesham shop.

Jimmy Smith, aged 22, of Watsons Lane, Evesham, stole the cigarettes from WH Smith on Saturday, April 16.

He pleaded guilty to a charge of burglary when he appeared at Worcester Magistrates Court.

Matt Dodson, prosecuting, said the store supervisor was alerted to the crime by the alarm company. Police arrested Smith in the shop.

Mr Dodson said: “The roller shutter was rolled up and he filled a carrier bag with cigarettes.

"He left and later returned with another bag.”

Smith said he could not remember much of the evening because he had been drinking.

Paul Stanley, defending, said: “He pleads guilty on the basis he is responsible for the burglary but not the damage.”

Sentencing was adjourned until Wednesday, May 25 for a pre-sentence report.