THE family of a man who tried to avoid being sentenced for theft and fraud by telling the court his father had died have assured friends he is alive and well.

Peter McDade, 25, of Osbourne Gardens, Crook, County Durham, was due at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court this week for sentencing.

At an earlier hearing, he pleaded guilty to stealing stainless steel urinals from public conveniences at Toft Hill and Butterknowle, and a sink from toilets in Staindrop, all County Durham.

He sold the metal for £43 to a scrapyard in Shildon, also in County Durham.

Teesdale District Council had to pay £350 to repair the damage after the thefts on February 18.

On Tuesday, magistrates heard that McDade had telephoned the court to say he could not attend the hearing because his father had died.

They were also told that court records showed a similar message excusing his attendance at a hearing in April.

Yesterday, McDade's family spoke to The Northern Echo to try and reassure well-wishers that Mr McDade is alive and well.

His sister, Kay Armstrong, said their father, retired bus driver Glenn McDade, 51, of Bishop Auckland, had not passed away.

She said: "We are very disappointed he said that. It is hurtful and has caused a lot of distress.

"It is difficult for me to hear because he is my brother, but he isn't in touch with mam and dad.

"A lot of people have contacted us sympathising and though it is touching, we want to assure them dad is alive and well."

Magistrates agreed to adjourn sentencing for a week so an explanation could be given.

McDade and his co-accused, Ryan David Armstrong, 31, of Fleet Street, Bishop Auckland, are due at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court on May 30 for sentencing.

Armstrong also failed to attend court last Tuesday afternoon, after answering bail in the morning.

If they fail to appear on Friday, magistrates have warned that warrants for their arrest will be issued.

McDade also faces charges of drink-driving, driving without insurance and otherwise than in accordance with a licence in High Grange, near Bishop Auckland, on March 26.