TWO young men who stole a farmer’s Land Rover in Frosterley, Weardale, while he worked nearby have appeared in court.

Stephen Jackson, 23, of Quarry Lane, Butterknowle and John Jardine, 19, of Proudfoot Drive, Bishop Auckland, pleaded guilty to the theft at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court today (Wednesday, September 24).

Jackson also pleaded guilty to driving without a licence or insurance and criminal damage to a farm building during the incident on September 8.

Prosecuting, Brian Payne described the crime as a pre-planned theft from a vulnerable 71-year-old man.

District Judge Martin Walker adjourned the case for pre-sentence reports on the pair who are due back in court on October 15 for sentencing.

They were released on bail with the condition that they do not enter Weardale.