A FORMER Pershore football coach said he had been stupid to con his club because of his financial problems.

Gary Steffens cheated on Pershore Town Football Club between December 2003 and May 2004 by obtaining property by deception and stealing.

Douglas Marshal, prosecuting, said Steffens, aged 29, from Head Street, was of previous good character.

"He stated that he had been stupid and lost his head because he was having money difficulties," he said.

Worcester magistrates heard last Wednesday that the former youth team coach and committee member committed a variety of offences that amounted to a breach of trust.

In December 2003 he was given a cheque for £500 to buy a computer and printer for the football club. When the computer did not materialise he told members that he had bought it from Staples.

It emerged that Steffens had not paid for the equipment and had set up an account in the club's name.

The court heard he had used money and cheques for reasons other than the purpose specified.

Dawn Cooper, defending, offered no plea of mitigation. Steffens, who admitted the charges, was released on bail on the condition that he attends a meeting with the probation service.

The case was adjourned for reports until Thursday, June 16.