A TEACHER has been convicted of stealing girls' clothing including a pair of briefs and fishnet tights.

Former Turton High School teacher, Mark Walsh, aged 28, of Derwent Road, Farnworth, admitted stealing various items of clothing belonging to eight girl pupils.

He appeared at Bolton magistrates court on Friday and spoke only to confirm his name, age, address and his plea during the five-minute hearing.

Walsh pleaded guilty to eight counts of theft between 1999 and 2005.

The allegations relate to three schools - Turton High School in Bolton, Failsworth High School in Oldham, and Temple Moor High School in Leeds.

Among the items stolen were items of underwear, several skirts and pairs of trousers, a blazer, a sports top, a school sweatshirt, a PE skirt, a training glove, leotard and a white top.

Walsh was granted bail on condition he does not contact any prosecution witnesses and does not go within 100 yards of each of the three schools.

Walsh was suspended from the Bromley Cross school after being arrested in February and has since resigned.

He will be sentenced in the New Year when he will appear at Bolton Crown Court on January 6.