Three members of a gang that targeted newsagents and village stores in several parts of Worcestershire have admitted a series of raids.

They were remanded in custody at Worcester Crown Court after admitting burglary, theft and taking valuable cars.

Nicholas Hodgetts aged 20, of Bush Avenue, Smethwick, admitted five burglaries, two thefts and one offence of aggravated vehicle taking.

Dean Isitt, 24, of no fixed address, admitted five burglaries, four thefts and one aggravated vehicle taking.

Jonathon Holland, 28, of Waterside caravan park, Offerton Lane, Worcester, admitted four burglaries and one aggravated vehicle taking.

The court was told that the properties attacked included Cutnall Green Post Office, Gallies newsagents in Ombersley, Abberley Town stores near Stourport-on-Severn, St John's newsagents in Bromyard Road, Worcester, and Tenbury News, in Teme Street, Tenbury.

Expensive cars stolen were a BMW, Chrysler, Lancia and a Volvo.

Ordering pre-sentence reports, Judge David Matthews said he also wanted to know the condition of one civilian and two police officers injured in the raids.

The case was adjourned for three weeks.