A BURGLAR who broke into his neighbour’s house through the loft space has been jailed for four years.

Sean Nerney, of Ellis Street, Burnley, broke into the house in December and rummaged through every room, removing floorboards and leaving with copper piping, a television, a laptop and jewellery.

Nerney, 32, also admitted breaking into another house on the same street in December, stealing a laptop and jewellery.

Police said Nerney’s actions in targeting his neighbours were 'appalling'.

He was arrested at his home on December 14 after police recovered forensic evidence from one of the addresses linking him to the crimes. During a search of his home, officers recovered some of the items which had been stolen.

PC Melissa Kelly said: “Nerney deliberately targeted his neighbours and stole valuable items. He caused a lot of damage to their houses leaving them in a mess, which was even more distressing for the victims.

“It is appalling that Nerney targeted his own neighbours and whilst it is rare for a burglar to break in through the loft space, I would encourage residents in terraced houses to fit a standard bolt to the loft hatch.

“We understand the devastating impact that this intrusive crime can have on victims and we are determined to take action to continue to target those people who invade your homes and steal your possessions.”