Two Halfords workers from Gillingham stole expensive bikes and tried to sell one on eBay.

Colin Gooders, 21, of Eastcourt Lane, and 26-year-old Luke Wilson, of Stratford Avenue, admitted theft after being caught in a stock check at the Chatham store.

Gooders had the nerve to bring his stolen bike back to his store and claimed two refunds, while Wilson sold his £2,000 model on eBay for £1,700.

Their deceptions were discovered when another employee noticed a refund had been issued for one bike, a Boardman road bike worth £519.99, but there was no receipt.

In fact, it was then discovered Gooders had issued two refunds, both for £519.99 into his account.

Then when another store asked for a Pinarello bike, worth £2,039, to be delivered to them as it was showing on the Chatham store's stock list, it was discovered that bike was missing.

When CCTV footage was reviewed it was discovered the pair were both involved in the scam as Gooders could be seen taking the bike out and hiding it under some boxes

After the store closed, a man dressed in dark clothing, believed to be Wilson, was seen picking it up.

Wilson was charged with theft as he had left Halfords before the offence. Gooders was sacked and he was charged with four counts of theft by employee.

Both appeared before magistrates in Medway and pleaded guilty.

Magistrates ordered Wilson carry out 80 hours of unpaid work and pay £85 court costs.

Gooders was ordered to carry out 220 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £1,038 in compensation and £85 court costs. Both have to complete a rehabilitation programme.