A CHARITY collection thief has been jailed for a year after stealing six Poppy Appeal collection boxes.

Scott Williams, 35, a chef, of Southview Drive, Westcliff was sentenced at Chelmsford Crown Court on Saturday November 12 Judge David Gilmore.

He was also ordered to pay £300 to the British Legions Poppy Appeal.

Scott Williams, who was remanded in custody, was arrested on board a train at Prittlewell train station after being identified by Greater Anglia staff.

The court heard how the thefts took place at a Kwik Fit in Rectory Grove, Leigh, a BP garage in London Road, Westcliff, on Sunday October 30, at a church in Leigh on Sunday October 30, Mangetout restaurant in Southend on Saturday November 5, the Roslin Hotel in Southend on Sunday November 6 and a charity shop in Sutton Road, Southend on Tuesday November 8.

He spoke in court only to confirm his name and to confirm he understood the sentencing. His mother sat in court shaking her head as the offences were read out.

Mr Williams was charged with six counts of theft and failing to provide a sample for a drugs test and he pleaded guilty to all offences.

Matthew Bone, the solicitor representing Mr Williams said the offences had angered the community.

He added: "This offending causes disgust and horror to anyone.

"This is a man brought up properly, his mother is here today, she is wearing a poppy and we can imagine what she thinks.

"He has a home but is not always there and his mother at times does not know where to find him."

"The way he is regarded in the community he is better in custody. He trained and worked as a chef, his life has been blighted by drugs.

"This is a man who has battled."

Judge David Gilmore said: "These offences have outraged the public.

"To take money from a charity that helps ex service people is probably one of the worse forms of theft."