A thief has been appeared in court just days after stealing money from the till of a restaurant.

Diavren Pope entered the premises in Maidstone High Street at lunchtime on Friday (May 26) while staff were in the back area, and stole £50 from the till.

The 42-year-old was then seen acting suspiciously and pursued, but when challenged outside he handed back an envelope containing only receipts.

Pope, of Tonbridge Road, Maidstone, was identified by town centre patrols and arrested on Sunday (May 28).

He was remanded to appear before Medway Magistrates’ Court where he pleaded guilty to the theft at a hearing on Tuesday.

The court granted him bail with conditions until his sentencing, which is due to take place on August 1.

PC Rob Barrett said: “Pope was quickly recognised as the suspect after a CCTV image was circulated among our local teams.

“We remain determined to protect local businesses targeted by criminals like him, who see shops and other commercial premises as easy pickings.

“By swiftly bringing offenders before the courts we will ensure they are held accountable for their actions.”