A judge told a son who stole gold jewellery worth up to £20,000 from his mother that his behaviour was "odious."

Judge Marie Catterson said Jason Sheriff would have been expected to protect his mother's belongings, rather than steal them to squander on alcohol and clubbing.

St Albans crown court was told today that on nine separate occasions between May and July he took items of sentimental value from a bag under his mother's wardrobe at her home in Cleveland Crescent, Borehamwood.

Some of the 22 carat bangles, chains, earrings and rings had been given to Jaymala Baungally by her mother. They were valued at between £15,000 and £20,000.

Sheriff, who was unemployed at the time, took the jewellery to a shop in Borehamwood where he received a total of £3,955. That money was spent going out clubbing and on drink.

Sheriff, 22, now of the Toby Carvery, High Road, Barnet, pleaded guilty to theft.

Defence barrister Rebecca Filletti said he was now working as a chef at the Toby Carvery and living in a flat above the premises.

"He apologises for being lazy and self-centred. He is apologising to his mother and is trying to repay her from his wages. She is not willing to have him back yet, but might have him home over Christmas," she said.

Judge Catterson told him: "Your mother estimated the value at between £15,000 and £20,000. Much was of great sentimental value, having been inherited from her mother. Your behaviour was odious. You would be expected to protect the interests of your mother rather than steal from her in this way."

She sentenced him to 12 months' jail suspended for 18 months and ordered him to complete 150 hours' unpaid work. He must pay his mother £4,000 compensation at the rate of £250 a month as well as £300 costs.