A man found by police with socks covering his hands to hide his fingerprints has admitted taking two diamond rings during a burglary.

Zackie Melheim, 42, pleaded guilty to taking the items from a home in Regency Court, Langley Road, Watford on October 20.

St Albans Crown Court heard on Monday that Melheim and another man named as Jason Hibbert also attempted to break into a house in Stratford Road, Watford, the following day.

Melheim admitted attempted burglary, but denied the same charge relating to two houses in Nascot Wood Road.

He did, however, admit going equipped for burglary on that day, with a pair of socks over his hands.

Melheim, of YMCA, Charter Place, Watford, has a long background of mental illness and has been diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder after suffering sexual abuse as a child.

Judge Plumstead adjourned sentencing for reports until March 30, but warned Melheim to expect to receive a custodial sentence.

He said: "Do not assume that gives any indication as far as sentence goes. Whoever sentences you will want the fullest possible picture."

The defendant was remanded in custody until March 30.