A TRAVELLER broke into the flat above a disused pub looking to steal copper piping, a court heard.

Thomas Ward, 49, admitted breaking into the premises above The Old Red Lion pub, Hoddlesden, where his ‘associates’ stole a DVD player and the spare keys to the victim’s BMW car.

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Ward pleaded guilty to one count of burglary. He was sentenced to 12 months in prison.

Preston Crown Court heard how Ward had spent ‘lengthy times’ in custody for numerous crimes, including 20 thefts, and had not engaged with probation until now.

His barrister told the judge that he had a ‘wake-up call’ as he approached his 50th birthday and was now determined to turn his life around.

The court heard how the victim had been left feeling ‘insecure’ and ‘upset’ after arriving home to find her property had been broken into.

Sentencing Ward, Recorder John Corless said: “As one would expect for someone who has had their flat burgled, it leads to upset and insecurity, which is why offences of this nature are so serious.

“It never seems the same when you have had someone who has gone into your property.”