AN "OPPORTUNISTIC" man sold stolen copper piping after trespassing in an abandoned plastic factory, a court heard.

Liam MacDonald, of Eagle Dene in Liverpool, appeared at Mold Magistrates Court on Thursday.

The 37-year-old admitted offences of burglary other than dwelling with intent to steal and criminal damage.

James Ashton, prosecuting, told the court that on April 22, MacDonald entered the site of Bromborough Plastics in Queensferry as a trespasser.

He gained entry to the grounds by means of a padlock being cut and then entered the plastic factory itself.

It was discovered afterwards that copper piping had been ripped away from the walls at the premises and numerous items had been moved, including a forklift truck.

MacDonald's DNA was found on the forklift, leading to his arrest.

He made admissions to the offences when questioned by police at Llay.

Eileen Chisnall, defending, told the court: "At the time, he was homeless with no food or money.

"The weather was bad, he had nowhere to stay and he sought refuge int he factory, which was abandoned.

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"Whilst he was there he realised he could make some money by removing and selling the copper piping, which he did.

"He made full admissions and enters a timely guilty plea."

Ms Chisnall said the crimes had been "opportunistic," and her client made £300 by selling the pipes.

"He accepts full responsibility for the offences and does struggle with his mental health," she added.

"But he has made changes to his lifestyle and has moved away from his peer group.

"He tells me he is willing to comply with any order the court may impose."

The Magistrates handed down a four month period of imprisonment, but suspended it for two years.

MacDonald must carry out 20 days of rehabilitation activity and 100 hours of unpaid work, as well as paying £300 compensation for the profit he made by selling his stolen goods, £154 victim surcharge and £85 costs.