A BETWS Bledrws man who stole a kayak from a van in Machynlleth has been handed a community order by magistrates.

Thomas Robertson, of 9 Bro Deri, appeared before Aberystwyth Magistrates’ Court on 14 June.

The 31-year-old pleaded guilty to stealing a kayak worth £1,500 belonging to Georgie Styles from a Mercedes van in Machynlleth on 12 December last year.

Magistrates handed Robertson a 12 month community order to include 40 hours of unpaid work and rehabilitation activities.

He was also ordered to pay £800 in compensation.

Robertson must also pay prosecution costs of £85 and a surcharge to fund victim services of £114.