A GROUP of young men stole thousands of pounds worth of furniture from a warehouse, a court heard yesterday.

Michael Harrison, Michael Kitson and John Mallia all admitted a charge of conspiracy to steal, at Teesside Crown Court. A 17-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, admitted theft.

James Robinson, prosecuting, said that Kitson, 22, of Downside Road, Acklam and Mallia, 22, of Derby Avenue, Whinney Banks, both Middlesbrough, worked in a warehouse associated with Barker and Stonehouse.

On October 30, police saw a van being driven by Harrison, 28, being let into the warehouse. The four defendants then filled the van with furniture. Their haul was valued at £4,044 retail, £2,105 cost price.

Mr Robinson said police searched Harrison's house, in Maple Avenue, Middlesbrough, and found more stolen furniture, worth £3,180 retail price or £1,424 cost.

Paul Cleasby, for Kitson, said his client had genuine remorse and had acted out of character.

Jamie Hill, for Harrison, said his client was not working for the company and was acting as a driver. At first, Harrison thought the goods were seconds or unsaleable.

Judge Peter Fox jailed Harrison for nine months, ordered Mallia and Kitson to complete 240 hour community punishment orders and the teenager a 120-hour order.