Meter repairman accused of theft

A parking meter repairman has appeared in court charged with stealing more than £70,000 from meters.

Arthur Blay, 48, faces 24 counts of theft, alleged to have been committed over six years of working in Bristol.

Once charge relates to the theft of £600 from machines outside the council headquarters on College Green.

Mr Blay, from Victoria Road in Fleur De Lis, Gwent, did not enter a plea when he appeared at Bristol Magistrates' Court.

He is currently suspended by Bristol City Council.

Mr Blay was given conditional bail, and is due to appear at crown court for 15 January.