A MAN who tried to steal a motorbike "planted" by police officers has been conditionally discharged.

Daniel James attempted to take a £700 Skyteam machine left by police in Gibson Street, Tunstall, to tempt thieves.

The 20-year-old's solicitor Peter Howland told North Staffordshire Magistrates' Court: "It was deliberately parked by police as a plant.

"It was simply to catch those people who take cars or motorcycles."

Lynn Warrington, prosecuting, said the bike was parked and secured by a police officer who then saw James approach, look at the bike and then walk away.

She told the court: "He later returned, kicked the stand away, held the handlebar and tried to take it away."

Ms Warrington said the defendant later told police he intended to sell the bike.

James, of Westport Road, Tunstall, pleaded guilty to attempted theft on February 26 this year. He was conditionally discharged for 12 months and ordered to pay £85 costs.