Casino worker jailed for one year

A casino worker who stole £8,500 from his employer to pay off debts has been jailed for 12 months.

Peter Smith, 37, of no fixed address, was caught on CCTV stealing the money from a till at Palace Casino, Great Yarmouth, on 24 May.

The court heard that he went to Ireland to pay off a debt and then went to Thailand, Norwich Crown Court heard.

Recorder Simon Spence told him it was a "breach of trust". He has been banned from working in casinos for 10 years.

Andrew Oliver, acting for Smith, said his client had gambling problems and run up substantial debts.

He said Smith was a man of previous good character.