But Glen Kennedy ended up being captured on film when he removed the camera and police identified him from the footage. The camera, taken from a pharmacy in Nelson, was found in the back street by staff and was damaged beyond repair, Pennine magistrates were told.

Kennedy (39), of Larch Street, Nelson, admitted damage to the tune of £500 on August 14th. He was bailed for a pre-sentence report.

Mr Norman Wilcock (prosecuting) said when the defendant was arrested, he said he had gone to the chemist and found it closed. He had been drinking, was annoyed and took out his frustrations on the camera.

Mr Daniel Frazer (defending) said Kennedy had a terrible record. A lot of it was due to amphetamine use which had caused mental health issues. He had had schizophrenia, amphetamine induced psychosis and depression. Kennedy had had help and overcome his problems.

The defendant took down the camera as "he doesn't want to have his image round everywhere." He picked the camera up, put it in a plastic bag and then went into the shop and apologised. He offered to pay for any damage.

The solicitor said Kennedy had been in and out of prison since 1990. In the last 12 months, he had made a significant attempt to keep himself out of trouble.