A MAN who used a heavy metal drain cover to try to break into an Isle of Wight supermarket and steal booze, will learn his fate this week.

Damon Wilkins, now of Merridale Road, Southampton, admitted to an attempted non-dwelling burglary in East Cowes on May 17, when he appeared at the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court.

During the early hours, police received reports of an attempted break in at the York Avenue Co-op.

Police discovered a storm drain cover had been used to try to break into the store, said Liz Miller, prosecuting. 

Officers found Wilkins, 24, a short time later. He conceded: "Yeah, that was me."

Following his arrest, Wilkins admitted the offence and wanting to steal alcohol.

Wilkins also faces sentencing for three assaults and a public order offence in Southampton Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, July 7.

For Wilkins, Oscar Vincent said his client, who has learning difficulties, came to the Island to visit his mother, but she was out and then, on impulse, he tried to break into the Co-op, but nothing was stolen.

The damage, a crack in the glass, was estimated at £1,000, which Mr Vincent questioned, should compensation arise.

Magistrates ordered all offences be sentenced together in Southampton and bailed Wilkins to reappear on July 7.