A TWENTY-year-old stole from his girlfriend’s mother because he was struggling with money, a court was told.

Mathew Bishop stole a bank card from Karen Lakes and used it to buy goods online. He then stole her pink sapphire and diamond bracelet in a desperate attempt to pay rent.

Appearing at Worcester Magistrates Court, Bishop, of The Haysfield, Malvern, pleaded guilty to theft and two counts of fraud by false representation.

Matt Dodson, prosecuting, told the court that Mrs Lakes, who lives with Bishop’s ex-girlfriend Zara in Drakes Broughton, noticed that her bank cards were missing in late April.

After checking bank statements, she realised the card must have been stolen.

“The defendant had been at the house the night before,” said Mr Dodson.

“The girlfriend phoned Mr Bishop about the card and while he initially denied using it, he later admitted it to her.”

Bishop had tried spending £124 on clothes and trainers, and £46 on electronic goods, but neither transactions were successful.

Mark Sheward, defending, said he intended to sell the items and use the money to pay rent.

“These offences are out of character,” said Mr Sheward.

“At the time he was living with his father.

“He had been working in the building industry but that job was lost.

"His father, however, was still demanding that he paid £50 a week towards keep.

“He tried to tell his father that he was struggling, but Mr Bishop tells me that his father is the kind of person who won’t be told.

“He felt backed into a corner and that’s why he committed these offences.”

After stealing the bracelet, which was given to Mrs Lakes last Christmas, Bishop gave it to his brother to sell.

Eventually Mrs Lakes found it in Quarter Jewellery in Worcester.

During a police interview, Bishop concocted a story about the bracelet belonging to a friend.

Magistrates ordered Bishop to carry out 80 hours of unpaid work as part of a 12-month community order.

He was also told to pay £28 compensation to the jewellery store and £85 court costs.