A MAN has been fined more than £420 for attempting to steal a vehicle.

Paul Thomas Cooper, 50, appeared at Basingstoke Magistrates Count on September 3, where he pleaded guilty to attempting to steal a Mercedes.

The court heard how the St Peter’s Road resident was caught trying to enter the vehicle in Privett Close, Lychpit on August 18 using a screwdriver.

However, he was caught by the owner of the vehicle before he could gain access.

Cooper pleaded guilty for attempted theft and using a tool in connection with the theft.

Magistrates fined him £420 and ordered him to pay £32 victim surcharge and £20 costs.

The South Ham resident also pleaded guilty for one count of assaulting another person on the same date, where he was ordered to pay £75 in compensation.