Copper thieves caught in the act

COPPER robbers were caught red-handed by police in an Oldham day centre.

Darren Butler and Dean Maguire surrendered to officers after scuttling out of the Park View Centre, on Kings Road back in May.

Oldham Magistrates heard how the pair and another accomplice had stolen pieces of copper piping in a bid to make money.

The trio were caught after police received a call from an anonymous tipster.

Butler (28), of Alexandra Mews, Oldham was sentenced to eight weeks imprisonment after pleading guilty to burglary with intent to steal and possessing cannabis.

Maguire (20), of Spring Street, Oldham also pleaded guilty to burglary with intent to steal and was ordered to pay a £100 fine and £85 in court costs.

Robert Watson (55), of Acre Lane, Cheadle Hulme, pleaded not guilty to burglary with intent to steal, at the court on Monday.

He is due to appear at Oldham Magistrates Court for trial on August 22.