A British soldier who had served in Iraq today appeared in court charged with stealing and illegally possessing ammunition.

Sussex-based Private Christopher Trussler, 28, was remanded in custody after having a bail application rejected at Chichester Magistrates' Court.

He was charged with illegally possessing 21 rounds of 9mm ammunition in Chichester on May 24 contrary to the Firearms Act 1968 without having a firearms certificate.

Prosecutor Andrew Newman said he was also charged with stealing 21 rounds of 9mm ammunition from the Ministry of Defence on or about May 24.

He was charged in connection with the sale of army-issue bullets following an undercover operation involving Scotland Yard's Operation Trident, which combats gun crime in the black community.

Trussler, a father of one who is expecting a second child next month, spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and that he lived at Baker Barracks, Thorney Island, near Chichester, West Sussex.

Kate Watts, defending, said Trussler had been suspended on full pay from the army pending the outcome of the proceedings.

No plea was indicated and chairwoman of the bench Ruth Andrew remanded Trussler in custody to reappear in court on June 15.