A MAN who stole fuel from buses at Keenan of Ayr has been fined £800.

William Smillie, of Dalfarson Avenue, Dalmellington, forced opened the locked vehicles to steal the substance at 18 Evergreen Coalhall in March last year.

The 54-year-old appeared before Sheriff Mhari Mactaggart last week The court heard how the buses were parked in a secure base.

Depute Fiscal, Lindsay Bain, said: “At 7.10pm management observed that the fuel caps has been comprised off and fuel had been removed.

“He observed a small spot of blood and called the police. They attended with crime officers which examined the location and took blood samples.

“They traced the accused and on June 29, detained him and took him to Ayr Police Office. He was then interviewed and spoke freely.”

Speaking on his behalf, defence solicitor, Steven Maxwell, said: “The fuel taken was between £300-£400. The value of the damage to the vehicles was more than that.

“It has been a long time since Mr Smillie has been in court. He and a number of others had been taking the fuel but his DNA was found by the vehicle. He understands why his blood had been found.”

Addressing the dock, Sheriff Mactaggart, said: “Right Mr Smillie as Mr Maxwell has said, it has been some considerable time since you have been before the courts. You will pay compensation to the company of £800.”