A postman who worked in the Black Country for 23 years faces jail after he admitted opening mail and stealing the cash inside.

Glen Miller, of Scafell Way, West Bromwich, was caught after bosses gave him dummy envelopes and spied him opening them.

Miller, aged 44, was based at the Lyng Lane delivery office since 1986. He admitted opening 15 packages over a six-month period last year.

He also pleaded guilty at Warley Magistrates’ Court to a second charge of theft.

John Dunn, prosecuting, said bosses at Royal Mail became suspicious of Miller after another member of staff saw him remove a greeting card from a box.

On September 23 they gave him four test packages in large colourful envelopes and spied on him during his round.

Miller was spotted opening one of the packages and when he was apprehended three of the other packages were also found to be open.

In interview, Miller admitted opening the packages to look for cash.

He said he had opened 15 other packages between March 24 and September 26 last year.

He said during that time he had taken £40 in total.

Ranjit Vains, defending, made only limited representations but suggested the defendant had been experiencing financial difficulties after splitting with his wife.

District Judge Michael Wheeler warned Miller a custodial sentence would be considered.

He said: “You have pleaded guilty and these are serious matters. They are potentially so serious that the court needs to consider a prison sentence.”

Sentencing was adjourned until Wednesday for reports.