A man has been remanded in custody after pleading guilty to multiple offences in the Malmesbury area including stealing items donated to a local foodbank.

Kyle Brace, 25, of Athelstan Road, Malmesbury, appeared in Swindon Magistrates Court today charged with two counts of burglary, attempted burglary, theft by walk-in and possession of a knife.

The offences were committed around the town between January 20 and 21 at The Forge, St Aldhelm Church and the Masonic Hall.

Tea, coffee and other tinned items donated for a foodbank were stolen from St Aldhelm Church, while items including a ceremonial sword, candelabra and masonic regalia were stolen from the Masonic Hall.

When Brace was arrested he was found in possession a knife, as well as keys, phone and a jacket which had been stolen from a member of staff at a café in the Abbey.

He was remanded in custody and is next due to appear at Swindon Crown Court on February 21.

Sgt Katharine Smith said: “Brace was arrested after fleeing from The Forge after he was disturbed by a member of the public trying to break in with a pick-axe.

"Incidents of this nature can have a really negative impact on the community but the excellent team work of the officers involved ensured that Brace was apprehended swiftly and is now remanded in custody until he is sentenced for his actions.”