A MAN who stole computer equipment worth £7,300 while working as a music teacher at Kendal College has been handed a suspended prison term.

Daniel Griffiths, 36, pinched four MacBooks, two iPads and also in-ear monitors as personal and financial problems spiralled out of control. Griffiths then sold the equipment, at around the turn of last year, in a desperate bid to ease his money worries.

But he was charged with theft, admitted the offence and was sentenced at Carlisle Crown Court yesterday (FRI).

Griffiths, a man of previous good character, was said to be "utterly ashamed" and embarrassed by his criminal conduct.

He had since been dismissed. And Recorder Michael Smith observed that the chances of him finding future teaching work were "very limited indeed".

Griffiths, now of Darlaston, near Wolverhampton, was given a 12-week prison sentence which was suspended for 12 months.

He must complete a rehabilitation activity requirement, and 240 hours' unpaid work.