A MAN has been given a suspended jail sentence after admitting handling stolen digger buckets in North Yorkshire.

Christopher Clymo, 43, from the Hartlepool area, tried to sell the digger buckets at a car boot sale in Stokesley – just a few miles away from where they originally came.

But he was spotted by the rightful owner, who recognised his buckets and contacted police.

Clymo pleaded guilty to handling stolen goods at Northallerton Magistrates Court. He received a 12-week suspended sentence and must carry out 150 hours of unpaid work within the next 12 months. He was also ordered to pay £145 costs.

The three buckets, worth a total of more than £780, were recovered and have been returned to their rightful owner.