A BUS driver who stole from his employers was under “immense financial pressure” at the time the offences were committed, a court has heard.

Neil Golding, of Gordon Road in Wimborne, stole his uniform after working for company Yellow Buses. Magistrates sitting in Poole heard the uniform was worth £1,069.

He was later employed by tour company Discover Dorset. In August last year, he stole takings worth £1,206 from the business. He also broke into company premises in Hurn to steal a safe containing £1,543.

Golding, 35, admitted one count of burglary and two of theft by employee. He appeared at court for sentence on Friday, April 13.

During a police interview, the defendant said he had meant to return the uniform.

The court heard Golding is the sole provider for his family. His wife is unable to work due to a back injury, it was said.

Magistrates sentenced the defendant to six weeks in prison suspended for 12 months. He must also carry out 200 hours of unpaid work in the next 12 months.

Compensation was ordered for both Discover Dorset and Yellow Buses. Golding will also pay costs and surcharges.