Overview
- Richard James Pugh, 41, changed his plea at Merthyr Magistrates' Court and admitted supplying a minor with alcohol.
- He received a £500 fine, a £200 surcharge and £650 in prosecution costs, payable at £25 a month.
- A 12-month restraining order bars him from contacting the child or posting about her, with breach carrying arrest and potential prison.
- The pupil testified he messaged her on social media and left a gift bag with a Malibu can, biscuits, iced coffees, a Nando's voucher, a vape and a card signed "your best buddy" with a kiss.
- Pugh denied giving a gift bag and offered alternative explanations, which the judge rejected as not credible; he is now unemployed and says he will not return to teaching.