TWO men have appeared before Blackburn magistrates charged with stealing £23,200 from the home of a 72-year-old Nelson man.

The court heard the two men later went on a spending spree, getting rid of over £1,000 in 20 minutes.

Liam O'Callaghan, 31, of Belgrave Street, Nelson, and James Taylor, 23, of no fixed address were sent to Burnley Crown Court charged with burglary at a house in Fulham Street aggravated by possession of a screwdriver.

Alex Mann, prosecuting, said two other men, who are known to the police, have not yet been arrested.

O'Callaghan and Taylor will appear before the crown court on September 28. O'Callaghan was sent in custody.

Taylor was granted bail but the prosecution lodged an immediate appeal against the decision and Taylor will remain in custody until the appeal is heard at the crown court.