A PROLIFIC crook who tried to raid a house in the early hours fell down the steps trying to escape, a court heard.

Burnley Crown Court was told how drunken Steven Lumb, 56, who has been breaking the law for more than 40 years, was seen lying in the garden. He got up, climbed over a fence and made off.

Lumb of Church Street, Stacksteads — who has 162 offences to his name — admitted attempted burglary at a house on Huttock End Lane, also in Stacksteads, on November 28 last year.

He was given 12 months in prison, suspended for a year, with 12 months supervision.

Stephen Parker, prosecuting, said the 63-year-old victim was renovating his house. He was awoken at 4am by the sound of clanging steel outside and found the front living room window had been smashed.

The victim went outside and saw someone walking away from his front garden. He tried to follow Lumb, but lost sight of him. The defendant was picked out on a video identity parade.

Keith Harrison, defending, said Lumb accepted he had a lamentable record and said: “He apologises for the burglary. It’s part and parcel of a chaotic lifestyle with his afflictions.”

Sentencing, Recorder Andrew Long said: “With considerable hesitation, I find myself persuaded to give you another chance.

“Clearly, you need help addressing your drug and alcohol problems. I want to give you that help.

“This is an opportunity. It’s probably your last. I urge you to take it.”