Court result - Theft of coping stones

Yesterday at Preston Magistrates’ Court, 61-year-old John Sharrock, of Park Road, Orrell, Wigan, pleaded guilty to the theft of coping stones from an address in the Brindle area of Chorley.

Sharrock was issued with a community order requiring him to complete 40 hours of unpaid work. He must also pay compensation to the victim and cover associated court costs.

On the day of the theft, thanks to prompt witness evidence, Sharrock was stopped by police while still in possession of the stolen stones. Arrangements were made for the property to be returned to the victim, who now faces the difficult task of reinstating it correctly.

The South Rural Task Force currently has several similar investigations ongoing, with other suspects awaiting their turn in court.

The theft of coping stones is extremely frustrating for victims and the wider community. This offence remains a priority for our Rural Teams, and we urge the public to continue reporting any suspicious activity to us.