AN APPEAL to identify a man caught on CCTV footage during a burglary of a popular Isle of Wight pub proved successful.

Images of the man, wearing a distinctive backpack, were circulated by the Castle Inn in Newport, went viral on social media and were featured on the County Press website, in August.

Harry Mortram, of George Street, Ryde, was identified and later arrested and charged with burglary.

He admitted the offence at the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court earlier today (Friday).

Liz Miller, prosecuting, said Mortram had forced his way in and caused damage to a lock and some plasterboard.

He spent 50 minutes inside the empty pub, stealing drink such as Jack Daniels, Disaronno and Smirnoff Vodka, worth £80, and emptying the staff tips jar of £150.

Miss Miller said: "CCTV was screenshotted and circulated on social media and multiple names were given including Mortram's.

"More CCTV captured Mortram walking up Pyle Street, and he had the distinctive backpack on.

"He was arrested and his fingerprints were found on the staff tips jar. He gave no comment in interview."

Read more: Pub staff 'heartbroken' over break-in

Henry Farley, for Mortram, said he was a 19 year old with no previous convictions, but he had unresolved issues relating to family, bereavement, alcohol, and possibly drugs 'raising its head'.

He had also suffered the breakdown of a three-year relationship.

A probation report was ordered by magistrates before sentencing.

The probation officer said Mortram turned to alcohol after problems in his life and ended up drinking heavily, getting through spirits or a 12-pack of beer every day.

He has since referred himself to Inclusion, for help with alcohol.

He said on the day of the burglary he had been drinking and taken Xanax tablets, and didn't know what he had done until the morning after when he saw the contents of his backpack.

He then saw his image in the CCTV on social media.

He had seasonal work which ended last week, so he is currently unemployed.

Mortram was given a 12-month community order to include 80 hours of unpaid work.

He must pay £630 compensation.