A MAN will stand trial charged with a string of theft and driving offences.

Jack Piccolo, 20, of Denver Drive, Basildon, appeared at Basildon Magistrates Court last Monday to face five different charges.

He was charged with dishonestly making off without paying for petrol at a petrol station in Stanford-le-Hope on Friday, September 30.

It is alleged that he didn’t pay £38.38.

He was further charged with driving a Ford Fiesta along Cranes Close, Basildon, without having the correct policy of third party insurance and otherwise than in accordance with a license on the same day.

A third charge related to taking and driving a silver Peugeot without the owner’s consent, also on September 30.

The court heard that the car was recovered by police and was found to be damaged.

Another charge related to him stealing a Ford Fiesta, a handbag and car keys from a home in Douglas Drive, Wickford, between September 28 and October 1.

He denied all the charges and was remanded in custody to appear at Basildon Crown Court for a trial on Monday, October 31.

Anyone with information about driving offences, thefts and burglaries can call Essex Police on 101.

Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org