A THIEF who stole from a number of premises in Prestonpans was also found in possession of weapons, a court has heard.

Alexander Stewart, 42, broke into Northfield House, Preston Road, and made off with a rucksack, a quantity of spoons, and a quantity of alcohol on June 16.

He also attempted to break into business premises at Prestongrange Terrace on the same date.

The thief, of Newbigging, Musselburgh, also stole a quantity of meat from the Co-op store at Prestonlinks Shopping Centre on September 2.

Stewart, who appeared from custody at Edinburgh Sheriff Court last Thursday, also pleaded guilty to possessing an air rifle at McLeod Crescent, Prestonpans, on August 14.

And he lodged a guilty plea to further allegations including possessing a knife at High Street, Tranent, on September 3.

He also admitted breaching a court order on August 16 by not being within his home address between 8pm and 6am.

Sheriff Nigel Ross remanded Stewart in custody and sentence was deferred for reports to December 6.