Burglar who stole jewellery of 'great sentimental value' jailed

Andrew Merkett, 30, of Bulkeley Avenue, pleaded guilty to burglaries which happened in August in Cockpole Green, Berkshire and Idbury, Oxfordshire.

He was sentenced at Reading Crown Court on Friday.

The first burglary, in Cockpole Green, saw Merkett use garden tools to break into the property before activating an alarm and fleeing the scene.

Garden tools were also used in the second burglary, in Idbury, where Merkett stole £5,000 worth of jewellery, which had great sentimental value to the owner.

Investigating officer, PC Chris Susel said: "I am delighted at the sentences imposed upon Merkett for the burglaries he carried out last summer. He will now have a long time to think about the effect he has had on his victims.

"Residents should feel safe in their homes, but Merkett’s actions have left his victims feeling anxious in their properties. 

"The jewellery he stole from the property in Idbury had great sentimental value to the victim, who has now lost a lifetime of memories."

Merkett was sentenced to 18 months for the first burglary and three years for the second burglary, which will be served concurrently.