A CYCLE stolen on an industrial estate was offered for sale at Cash Converters in Tamworth, magistrates heard.

Teenager Daniel James Mark Oates appeared in court last Thursday and admitted dishonestly receiving a stolen Carrera Vengeance bike, value £300, belonging to Mark Callow, knowing or believing it to have been stolen, on September 5 last year.

Prosecutor Naila Iqbal said Mr Callow rode the bike to work in Roman Way, Coleshill, and left it outside. The same day a young man was seen riding away on it.

Oates, aged 18, told police he left the site, where he had been working, on foot.

"He said someone asked him to sell the bike on their behalf," Miss Iqbal said. "He was aware that the bike was stolen but was prepared to steal it anyway."

The bike was later seen at Cash Converters and Oates was tracked down by police.

Oates, of Abelia, Amington, was on an 18-month community order, including a 26-day alcohol abuse programme, for an earlier offence.

Regarding handling the bike, he said: "I know it was a stupid thing. I didn't think at the time. It was one of my mates. I should not have done it."

The Bench decided to leave the community order in place but fined Oates £70 with £100 additional legal costs.