A FATHER drove his two sons to the former Ronkswood hospital site in Worcester so that they could steal scrap metal.

Brothers Adam and Scott Hodgetts both admitted stealing £100 of metal belonging to Robert Hitchins Ltd when they appeared at Worcester Magistrates Court.

Their 64-year-old father Alan Hodgetts was given a caution.

Sarah Stock, prosecuting, said police found a Ford Transit van laden with scrap metal in Darwin Close at 2.30pm on Thursday, April 21.

“In interview the two men said all three family members had travelled there together and they used wheelbarrows to get the metal,” she said.

Mrs Stock said Alan Hodgetts drove his two sons, who live with him in Conway, Tolladine, Worcester, to the site, where they stole the metal.

“Mr Hodgetts was arrested as he was present and he was cautioned for his role in the theft,” she said.

Scott Hodgetts, aged 38, was ordered to complete 90 hours of unpaid work and pay £75 costs.

As well as the caution, Alan Hodgetts admitted using a vehicle without insurance and was fined £175 and disqualified from driving for six months. He must also pay £60 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

Adam Hodgetts, aged 32, also admitted breaching a suspended prison sentence for the second time.

He will be sentenced at Worcester Crown Court on Friday, June 3.