A Skipton man, found by police in the early hours in the town centre with a large amount of pound coins, had stolen a charity box from the town hall, magistrates heard.

Officers came across Andrew Hudson, 49, at 5am, in January in Water Street carrying an unusually large number of coins, Skipton magistrates were told on Friday.

Hudson, who was with another man, was allowed to continue on his way, but was later questioned and arrested after it was reported there had been a break- in at Skipton Town Hall and a charity box had been taken.

Hudson had got into the hall by climbing over part of the roof and smashing a window into Craven Museum.

Forensic evidence linked a footprint in the building to one at Hudson’s home.

When he was later questioned by police officers, Hudson claimed to remember nothing about the break-in because he had been drunk.

He said he could vaguely remember being stopped by officers on his way through the town.

Prosecuting, Caroline Midgley, said it had been estimated there had been around £100 in the charity box and there had also been substantial damage to a three-pane window.

Hudson, of Raikes Road, admitted burglary theft on January 14.

In mitigation, John Mewies said he was a vulnerable individual, easily led and at the time had been drinking.

“He was simply dragged along after he had had a significant amount of alcohol,” said Mr Mewies.

Hudson was given a 12- month community discharge and ordered to pay compensation of £100, with costs of £85 and £15 victim’s surcharge.