A PERSONAL trainer admitted taking cash from a colleague – just a week after being sentenced for stealing from another workmate at a different job.

Connor Wheeler, 20, of Victoria Road, Southend, stole from a colleague at Rush Fitness, in Victoria Avenue, Southend, on June 7 after finding a master key to the gym locker on the floor.

He found the key on June 3 and used it on June 7 to enter colleague Rai Johal’s locker and steal £20.

Southend magistrates heard Wheeler stole a colleague’s £75 pay packet from former employer Mayhem nightclub, Warrior Square, Southend, on March 29, which he admitted on May 30.

For that offence, he was ordered to pay £75 compensation, a £60 victim surcharge, £85 costs and carry out 80 hours’ unpaid work.

Roger Neild, mitigating at Southend Magistratess’ Court, said Wheeler’s life had “spiralled out of control”.

He said: “2014 has not been a good year for Mr Wheeler. He has been in and out of his parents’ house, he’s lost two jobs and has broken up with his long-term partner.

“He has so much debt, he can’t think straight. He has debt with the court, with the Money Shop and has three payday loans.

“His life has spiralled out of control.”

The court heard Wheeler had also been diagnosed with stress-induced depression, but had not received any medication from his doctor.

He was given a second chance by magistrates.

Ann Wade, chair of the bench, said: “You are too young to lose your way. You now need to take this chance and focus.”

For the latest offence, he was ordered to pay a £60 victim surcharge and placed under a supervision order.