A MAN paid to oversee accounts for a community centre has admitted stealing from the organisation.

But the amount Paul Brown-King is alleged to have taken from Bullion Hall Community Hall, in Chester-le-Street, is disputed and may be subject of a trial of issue if all parties do not reach agreement on the figure.

The 62-year-old accountant, of Sturdee Gardens, Jesmond, Newcastle, is accused of abusing his position overseeing accounts by making payments to himself, from the funds of the community group, totalling £57, 247.56.

His alleged offending is said to have taken place over a period from January 1, 2012, to January 30, 2017.

Brown-King admitted a single count of fraud, but added: “Not to the amount.”

His counsel, Tony Davis said if the court could grant him 21 days it would enable the defence to set out what it claims is the exact amount taken by the defendant.

Judge Christopher Prince adjourned the hearing and bailed the defendant to return to court on February 25.