A SOMERSET man who was arrested 'wearing only boxers' after escaping the dock at Taunton Crown Court has appeared in court.

Oliver Milsom, 23, of The Croft, Williton, pleaded guilty to a series of charges when he appeared at Taunton Crown Court - this time via video link from HMP Exeter - today (Friday, February 16).

During his previous appearance in Court 1 on Friday, January 26, Milsom jumped the dock and escaped the building with a manhunt ensuing which even included a police helicopter.

Milsom also entered pleas for the charges he was initially supposed to be in court for before making his escape.

Before Judge Erik Salomonsen, Milsom pleaded guilty two two counts of assault by beating in November last year, as well as on count of damaging property relating to an incident in which he damaged three windows, a vacuum cleaner and a kettle in December.

Milsom also pleaded guilty to two counts of theft from the Spar on Fore Street in Williton, as well as stealing a bicycle from Star Bikes in Watchet.

Defending Milsom was Patrick Mason who said Milsom's mother was very concerned about her son's mental health.

Judge Salomonsen ordered a pre-sentence report so that Milsom can be sentenced on Friday, March 16.

Following the incident in which Milsom escaped custody, a spokesman from security firm GEOAmey said: “We can confirm an incident today (January 26) at Taunton Crown Court, in which a male prisoner jumped the dock in Court 1 and escaped from the court building.

"He was subsequently recaptured and is now in police custody. Two officers suffered minor injuries whilst giving chase to the prisoner. An investigation will take place into the circumstances surrounding this incident.”