A FORMER employee of the Albert Hotel stole £3,500 because, Dunfermline Sheriff Court was told, the company owed money to staff.

Michael Ramsay said in his defence that his employer refused to pay them so he took money and distributed it to himself and other colleagues.

The 41-year-old, of Lansborough Place, Stevenston, previously admitted that between August 3 and 31, 2015, both dates inclusive, at the Albert Hotel, Main Street, North Queensferry, he did steal money totalling £3,500.

Depute fiscal Carrie Stevens told Dunfermline Sheriff Court last Wednesday that Ramsay was in possession of a company credit card and went to withdraw money in a number of locations.

Defence solicitor Gordon Martin said: "Mr Ramsay was due between £6,000 and £7,000 from his employers for working shifts and other staff were due money too.

"He took about £800 for himself from the money and gave the rest away to other colleagues.

"Some might think that the employer was getting his just desserts but nevertheless it was taken unlawfully.

"Mr Ramsay and his fellow workers were ripped off by the employer.

"It is his first conviction and he is sorry that he has appeared before the court."

Ramsay was placed on a community payback order with 175 hours of unpaid work, as a direct alternative to custody.