A man who has been accused of stealing thousands of pounds worth of library books appeared at court yesterday.

Ross Druce, 34, of Manchester Place, near Chapel Field Road in Norwich city centre, has pleaded guilty to three charges of fraud by false representation and four charges of theft.

Norwich magistrates yesterday heard how between May 1, 2009 and August 31, 2009, he fraudulently opened library accounts with false identification intending to make gain and sell items.

Between the same dates, Druce also stole comic books and games belonging to Norfolk Library Services, it was heard.

He has also been charged with stealing a camera worth �50 in July 2010. It is believed the items stolen from the libraries were worth more than �4,800 and that different libraries were targeted. One hundred and seventy-four items were sold on.

The case has been adjourned and Druce will reappear at Norwich Magistrates' Court on February 11.