A CHEF celebrated turning 18 by returning to a former employer to raid waitresses handbags – recorded by CCTV cameras, a court heard. Craig Dicks admitted acting as lookout while a friend rifled through staff members coats and bags at The George Hotel,

A CHEF celebrated turning 18 by returning to a former employer to raid waitresses' handbags - recorded by CCTV cameras, a court heard.

Craig Dicks admitted acting as lookout while a friend rifled through staff members' coats and bags at The George Hotel, Buckden.

The incident happened on September 21 last year, the day after Dicks, of Turberville Court, Hemingford Grey, turned 18.

Magistrates at Huntingdon heard how Dicks had left his job as a chef at The George in August 2007, but remained living in the area.

During the theft, Dicks kept watch while his accomplice stole three mobile phones and a purse, the court heard.

When staff realised what had happened they viewed the hotel's CCTV footage, recognised Dicks, and contacted the police.

Officers found one of the stolen mobiles in Dicks' bedroom.

Nenad Spasojevic, defending, said Dicks had been goaded into participating in the theft by his older accomplice.

Magistrates handed Dicks 60 hours of community service, ordered him to pay £117 compensation and £60 court costs.