A MAN was caught' on film as he stole two CCTV cameras from a fishing lodge set up to help keep Darwen teenagers off the street.

But Blackburn magistrates heard that when Paul Anthony Mountain discovered the nature of the organisation he had stolen from, he offered to pay for the property and offer his services as a volunteer helper.

Mountain, of Lloyd Street, Darwen, admitted theft of two CCTV cameras worth £200 from Newrad Fisheries, Watery Lane.

He was given a conditional discharge for 12 months and ordered to pay £200 compensation.

Eddie Harrison, prosecuting, said the project was run for youths to teach them to fish, encouraging them to learn a new hobby.

He said: "It is an organisation that doesn't have a great deal of money and the £200 cost of the cameras has come out of the funds that should have been used for the benefit of the children."

Jonathan Taylor, defending, said Mountain was extremely sorry.

He said: "He has written to the organisation saying he is more than willing to replace the cameras and he has also volunteered his spare time to try and help with the project."