A Southampton man was spared a prison sentence after a judge said it would undo the help he is receiving from a mental health team.

Peter Bartlett, 28, had admitted fraud by making up a tenancy |agreement and letting his mother’s flat to a couple after promising he would clear up the place and install satellite or cable television.

Prosecutor Justin Gau told Southampton Crown Court that Bartlett then accepted £500 from the couple who he persuaded to sign the tenancy agreement.

Bartlett also admitted handing a stolen sofa and a washing machine and two charges of failing to s|urrender to custody.

Judge Gary Burrell QC said prison was not an appropriate place for him and gave him 12 months supervision.

David Reid, defending, said the |common element to his offending had been his chaotic lifestyle, but his life had since changed.

His partner was expecting their first child and he was working well with the mental health team.

“Things are definitely improving and supervision would suit him |greatly,” he told the court.