Mark Hughes, of Callao Quay, appeared before the town's magistrates and pleaded guilty to theft from a dwelling.

Prosecutor Mark Kateley told the court the offence took place in the early hours of the morning on June 3.

Hughes was sleeping on a sofa at an address in Burton Road, Eastbourne, where his step-son was also staying.

The defendant helped himself to a bottle of wine from a garden shed before going into a bedroom, emptying clothes from the wardrobe and stealing a camera and jewellery.

Police were called, Hughes was arrested and found with a camera hidden in his shorts and various items of jewellery in his underwear.

Natasha Dardashti, defending, said, "Mr Hughes has suffered from various mental health problems for some time now.

"He has become more and more unwell and he is unable to leave the house without consuming large amounts of alcohol.

"He is agoraphobic and would not be able to keep appointments with probation.

"His wife brought him here today and it has been very difficult for him to attend because he hasn't had a drink today and he is suffering as a result."

Ms Dardashti explained Hughes self-harms on a regular basis, suffers from anxiety and had been on diazepam for eight years.

"He has been hospitalised four times in recent weeks for injuries he has sustained by falling over with a glass in his hand," said Ms Dardashti.

Judge Roger Ede asked Ms Dardashti, "Why did he take the camera and the jewellery? I understand he has a problem with drink but people who are drunk don't automatically steal.

"He went in to a room he was not permitted to go in and then hid the stolen jewellery in his underpants."

Ms Dardashti explained Hughes could not remember due to being under the influence of alcohol.

The case was adjourned for pre-sentence reports and Hughes will reappear at Eastbourne Magistrates Court to be sentenced for the offence on October 24.