A “polite and well-mannered” teenager stole sweets from six-year-olds in a looting spree that left a trail of damage through two community groups in the same town.

A “polite and well-mannered” teenager stole sweets from six-year-olds in a looting spree that left a trail of damage through two community groups in the same town.

Cromer magistrates heard the 16-year-old, who cannot be named, broke into Stalham Sea Scouts hut on June 6 last year, trashing it and smashing a skylight before leaving with a haul worth �1,010.

Items stolen included fire extinguishers, tents, stoves, a sleeping bag and sweets.

Between July 15 and July 17, he broke into the Stalham Town FC clubhouse and caused �800 damage.

He stole property worth �320 - including four bottles of spirits, five footballs, bar equipment, kits, lights and a digital TV box.

He also caused �1,200 damage when he set fire to a shed on an allotment on July 16.

Speaking in court, the boy said: “At the time I didn't think but now when I look back I know it wasn't right.”

His mother said he had always been law-abiding, and described him as “polite and well mannered”.

The teenager, who had no previous convictions, pleaded guilty to two charges of theft and one of arson, with an offence of theft from a vehicle to be taken into consideration when he is sentenced later.