A TOTTON man has been found guilty of stealing scrap metal.

Liberty George Cooper and an accomplice stole the scrap metal from a yard in Sway, New Forest.

He also damaged gates to the yard.

The 46-year-old denied the theft, but was found guilty during a trial at Southampton Magistrates' Court.

He was made subject of a seven month community order, including a six month drug rehabilitation course.

Cooper, care of Water Lane, Totton, was also ordered to pay compensation of £200 to his victim and £100 in court costs.