A MAN who caused more than £30,000 of damage through arson will be sentenced next month.

Richard Howlett has previously admitted arson and theft when he appeared via videolink at Worcester Crown Court, and he reappeared in court this week.

The date of his sentencing will be Thursday September 27.

The arson happened in a goods cage and refrigeration unit at the Spar shop in Blake Avenue, Droitwich on June 3. As previously reported, emergency services were called to the blaze, at about 11.50pm after nearby residents spotted smoke billowing above the store.

Christopher Lester, prosecuting, said: “The fire officer concluded that the fire was started deliberately and was not accidental.”

Howlett , aged 35, of Cowl Street, Evesham, was remanded in custody until the next hearing.