A WORKER stole fridges and washing machines worth £14,000, a court heard yesterday.

Robert Gunn, 57, worked in the customer complaints and exchanges department at Electrolux UK, in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, and sold items that had been returned.

Staff, family and friends paid him in cash or cheques, Teesside Crown Court was told by David Lamb, prosecuting.

Gunn, of Romsey Drive, Boldon Colliery, South Tyneside, used the money to pay off gambling debts and family bills, the court heard.

Judge Michael Taylor told Gunn: "It was a serious breach of trust, but you have never been in court before and you are in poor health. I also take into account that you have lost your job and your family life is in tatters."

Gunn admitted theft over a period of four years and was given a nine-month jail sentence suspended for two years.