A 20-YEAR-OLD Wollescote man caught on a Black Country roof trying to strip off lead has been sent to a Young Offenders Institution for 12 weeks.

Judge Martin Walsh told Daniel Wainwright the stealing of metal was becoming prevalent and it had to be dealt with seriously by the courts.

He said Wainwright, of Cherry Tree Close, had to be put behind bars for a short time because the offence was also in breach of a Community Order.

The Judge told him: “You have shown you have no intention whatsoever in engaging in a meaningful way with the Probation service.

"You have left this court with no alternative but to impose an immediate sentence of custody. There is simply no other sentence I can pass."

The Judge warned Wainwright that unless he took steps to mend his ways and put his life in order he would find himself back in trouble and getting longer and longer sentences David Lees, prosecuting, said Wainwright - who admitted attempted theft - was seen by a neighbour on the roof of a block of flats in Glentworth Gardens, Wolverhampton.

The police were quickly alerted and Wainwright, whose previous convictions included attempted theft, was arrested in the area.

When questioned by officers he admitted he was trying to steal the lead to sell.

Jon Roe, defending, said Wainwright was now looking to stay on the tracks.

He added: "He wants to be a role model for his children."