THE former finance director of a firm is awaiting sentence after admitting stealing almost £500,000.

Kevan Berry, 43, now working as a hospital porter, knew he was going to go to jail, Burnley Crown Court heard.

Berry, formerly working at Bowland Finance in Barrowford, has admitted dishonesty allegations totalling around £400,000 before the Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale Magistrates. He had earlier been committed for sentence.

The defendant, formerly of Scott Park Road, Burnley, and now living in Hull, had sentence adjourned for pre-sentence reports. A psychiatric report has already been ordered for the sentencing judge, who will be a circuit judge.

The court was told the offences came to light when Berry tried to commit suicide, although there was some doubt as to whether it was a genuine attempt.

Berry did not appear in court when the case was mentioned on Friday, but was given unconditional bail until April 4.