AN ASDA cleaner was caught stealing scratchcards on CCTV.

Last Thursday, at Alloa Sheriff Court, Craig Davidson admitted pinching £513 worth of the lotto tickets in the town's store between April 3-30 this year.

Fiscal depute Ruairidh Ferguson told the court that when interviewed by police, the accused admitted: "I know it was daft and stupid doing what I done, and I'm not going to deny it."

Defending, Toni Pentecost claimed that her client was a gambling addict. As well as pinching loads, he was also splashing his cash on the cards but was running out of money.

The 34-year-old, of St Serf's Road in Tullibody, was said to be aware of the CCTV, but was "hoping that he wouldn't be caught".

Following his arrest, Davidson lost his job.

He has since made an appointment to speak to his GP about his addiction.

Sheriff David Griffiths asked: "Has he thought about Gamblers Anonymous?"

Sheriff Griffiths deferred sentence until December 15 for Davidson's good behaviour and to give him time to "put some money aside" as his punishment will most likely include an order to pay back Asda.