A YOUNG dad who went into his neighbour's home at the dead of night and helped himself to speakers could have ended up in jail.

Burnley Magistrates Court heard the raid was so serious it should be dealt with at Crown Court -- but the bench told defendant Darren Harrety, 20, they believed his claim that it was a prank.

Harrety, who has no previous convictions and works at B and Q, may have faced up to three years behind bars if his case had been committed to the higher court.

The magistrates said the offence was most unusual and they believed the defendant had no intention of permanently depriving the victim of the £50 speakers. They thought community punishment would be appropriate.

The defendant, of Rutland Street, Nelson, had admitted house burglary on June 23 and was bailed until July 24 for a pre-sentence report.

Julie Reddish, prosecuting, said the speakers were taken as a joke but it was a very foolish mistake.

Rachel Adamson defending said that the defendant, who was rather naive worked full time and had some speakers of his own which were worth £200.

Miss Adamson said Harrety was very sorry about what happened, had not intended to gain anything for himself and the offence did not involve any malice. He knew in the cold light of day what happened was not very funny at all.