A COURIER stole almost 700 items he should have delivered to phone and mail order customers in a bid to pay off debts, a court heard.

David Newman kept the goods, including 330 parcels, at his house, even wrapping up several things as Christmas presents for friends and family.

But his scam was uncovered when police and Post Office investigators raided his home and found property ranging from clothing to electrical appliances.

Southampton Crown Court heard that Newman, 55, hatched the plan to pay off mortgage arrears of £6,000.

Newman, who was employed by TNT, admitted stealing items worth £7,400 and given a nine-month suspended sentence.

In mitigation, Peter Spink said Newman, of Maybush Road, Southampton, accepted there had been a breach of trust and he was very ashamed of his conduct, which was out of character.

Newman faced financial difficulties that included £6,000 mortgage arrears and had planned to steal the items to sell them on to ease the situation.