A NORTHWICH teenager admitted stealing stereo equipment and taking a scooter without consent at Northwich Youth Court last Wednesday.

Magistrates heard how the 16-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was identified by a DNA sample after taking a pair of car speakers from a vehicle he discovered with a door window smashed.

Catherine Whincup, prosecuting, said that a week later the boy took a scooter parked on Whalley Road, Northwich, and a witness saw him inflict extensive damage by repeatedly dropping it on its side.

The owner later discovered the bike discarded in a field and estimated the damage done to be more than £200.

Chris Johnson, defending, said that the youth was at a loose end at the time and only took the speakers and the bike after being urged on by a friend.

He added: "On both occasions it wasn't my client's idea to take items. It seems that he gets into trouble when he is out following others."

Magistrates ordered the boy to return on September 28 for sentencing and indicated that he would be facing a community-based punishment.