A man has appeared before Carmarthen magistrates accused of stealing money from churches across west Wales.

Christopher Coulthard, 40, from Bedworth in Warwickshire, faces 17 charges involving churches and chapels in Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire.

The hearing lasted ten minutes

He has been charged with 10 counts of stealing more than �487 from churches, six counts of intent to steal and one count of having articles in his possession connected with burglary.

During the 10 minute hearing on Friday Mr Coulthard did not enter a plea.

The items which were allegedly stolen include maps, screwdrivers, lock picks and a torch.

The largest sum he is alleged to have taken is �120 from Monkton Priory church in Pembrokeshire and the smallest amount �2.20 from Llanwnen church near Lampeter, Carmarthenshire.

Mr Coulthard appeared before magistrates wearing jeans and a navy shirt.

He spoke only once to confirm his name and address.

Mr Coulthard was remanded in custody for three weeks and the case has been adjourned until 1 November while further police investigations are carried out.