The Courier has reported that Steven Flynn admitted stealing the lead rolls over several trips to Asphaltic Roofing Supplies on Dryburgh Industrial Estate in Dundee.

The frequency of his visits saw him make off with lead worth more than £3,000, but was also what aroused suspicion.

Depute fiscal Susan Ruta told Dundee Sheriff Court: “During mid-July last year the accused began a course of conduct whereby he would attend at the locus to collect rolls of lead.

“The accused attended on his own to collect quantities of lead before leaving in one of two vehicles.

“He stated that he worked for Muirfield Contracts and the rolls of lead were given to him and the bill was added to Muirfield Contracts’ account.

“The lead rolls are sold on weight so the value of each roll varies.

“In total 24 rolls of lead were obtained by the accused, with varying weights but a total value of £3,177.91.

“Because the accused was obtaining so much lead suspicion was aroused by staff.

“The next time he attended he was asked for further details and was told checks would be done to confirm his identity.

“Police were contacted by staff and following various police inquiries the accused was eventually traced on December 14 last year and taken into custody for the offence.”

Last week Flynn pleaded guilty to stealing a quantity of lead from the company between July 22 and August 20 last year.

Ms Ruta added there was no recovery of any of the stolen lead.

After hearing the facts, Sheriff Tom Hughes said he would have to defer sentence in order to obtain reports on Flynn. He will appear for sentence on August 28.

Muirfield Contracts went into administration in March with more than 360 jobs, both full-time and contractors, lost and leaving debts of around £6.9 million.