Barman who faked robbery escapes jail term

A BARMAN who stole more than £3,000 from his work by taking part in a fake robbery escaped jail when the amount taken was paid over in court.

Colin Hume, 32, of Roseburn Avenue, had pleaded guilty previously at Edinburgh Sheriff Court to stealing 3,308.46 from Winston's in Kirk Loan on 16 May last year while acting with others.

He pretended he had been manhandled by two masked men, who stole the takings, but later admitted working with the thieves.

Defence solicitor, Steve Knowles, said his client had at the time suffered from a gambling addiction and had run up a significant debt. Mr Knowles added that Hume's family were prepared to find the money to pay compensation to Hume's previous employers.

Sheriff John Horsburgh QC said he had a sentence of 18 months in prison in mind, but if Hume could produce the money, he was prepared to consider other options.

Sheriff Horsburgh said that in view of this and Hume's previous good record, he would impose 200 hours of community service.