A MAN has appeared in court following the alleged theft of 10 hot tubs worth an estimated £50,000.

Alexander Nelson, 31, appeared from custody at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday accused of stealing the hot tubs from an industrial unit in Macmerry.

Nelson, from Edinburgh, is alleged to have acted with others unknown and forced open a locked commercial yard to steal the six-person spas.

It is also alleged that Nelson committed the offence having been granted bail at Edinburgh Sheriff Court last month.

Nelson pleaded not guilty to the charges on summary complaint and was released on bail.

He is due to return to the dock in May to stand trial in relation to the alleged theft.