A FATHER who was caught red-handed during an early morning burglary has been jailed for three-and-a-half years.

Burnley Crown Court heard how Lee Bleasdale forced his way into the garage of a home on Badger Close, Burnley, and began riffling around the property as the two home owners watched on in horror.

The 35-year-old, who appeared in court via videolink from Preston Prison, attempted to steal food, alcohol and jewellery from inside the garage before escaping.

Prosecuting, Emma Kehoe said: "The homeowner, Mrs Nuttall, was woken just before 6am on December 2 when she heard something coming from the garage.

"She woke her husband and the two laid in bed listening.

"They heard a clutter and looked out of the window where they could see a man.

"They immediately contacted the police as they watched the man pull out a Asda carrier bag."

The court heard how when Bleasdale, of Stockbridge Road, Padiham, was aware of approaching police, he tried to flee the scene.

Mr Nuttall left his home and chased Bleasdale down the street, joined by two police officers.

He was eventually found hiding in a bush with the stolen property and was arrested.

Back at the garage a coat containing a balaclava and gloves was found.

Mitigating, Phil Holden said: "There was a key in the door which adjoined the garage to the house - he could have gone through that door but he did not.

"It is known that Mr Bleasdale has had drink and drug issues in the past. Since he was placed in custody he has got himself a job and is working as a mentor.

"He is also receiving counselling for the first time since the death of his daughter."

Levi, three, died following a hit and run accident in September 2005.

The driver of the vehicle that knocked the toddler down, Mohammed Hussain, was handed a 12-week jail sentence in 2006, something the family were openly outraged about at the time.

Bleasdale has been in and out of jail for a number of offences ever since - including when he was imprisoned for four years in 2007 after burgling homes to fund his heroin addiction.

His Honour Judge Jefferies QC sentenced Bleasdale to 40-months imprisonment.