A MAN targeted a home for burglary while the victim was enjoying a drink at a neighbouring house.

Patrick Talbot took advantage of the fact that Derek McCammon had been invited into a nearby home.

He got into his flat and stole items including a flat-screen TV, Xbox games consul and remote control helicopter, worth a total of £450.

Talbot, 47, of Haslingden Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to burgling Mr McCammon’s home in Whitehaven Close, Blackburn in February.

A judge at Preston Crown Court gave him a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, with 12 months’ supervision and 150 hours’ unpaid work.

Kimberley Obrusik, prosecuting, said the Xbox and helicopter were recovered from Talbots home.

He claimed the victim had owed him £40 and he had been keeping hold of his property until the money was repaid.

Katie Jones, defending, said: “The defendant is remorseful. He wishes to apologise to the court for his inappropriate behaviour in this case.”