TWO thieves were caught on the roof of an Inverkeithing shop as they left with their loot.

One of them was only 16 and a hole had been cut in the shop roof to carry out the raid.

In the dock at Dunfermline Sheriff Court were Cameron King, 21, of Chapel Place, Lochgelly, and the youth, who cannot be named for legal reasons.

They admitted that on July 19, they broke into the Mini Market shop, Deas Road, Inverkeithing, and stole a quantity of alcohol, cigarettes and money.

The court heard there was significant planning involved.

Depute fiscal Dev Kapadia said police officers became suspicious after seeing a light on in the shop.

They called for back-up and the thieves were then seen emerging from a hole in the roof carrying bags of cigarettes and alcohol. The youth was found to be in possession of more than £300 in cash, while King had £220.

Another £142 was found lying on the roof. Inside the shop, there were more items in bags ready to be removed.

The court was told that they had chosen that shop as it had previously been broken into and no-one was caught for it.

Sheriff Alastair Brown described the youth as a “silly laddie who was flying with the craws” while King was “an inveterate thief”.

Sheriff Brown called for reports and ROLO assessments before sentencing on April 15.