A BURGLAR who broke into a Clitheroe house ended up dialing 999 when he cut his wrist trying to get out of the property.

Preston crown court heard that Stuart Taylor, described as a gifted musician, spent four weeks in hospital after paramedics found him drunk and bleeding from the cut.

A window had been smashed and there was blood on a window, rugs and the sofa.

Taylor, 42, of Edisford Road, Clitheroe, had been committed for sentence for the burglary and was given 12 months prison suspended for two years with supervision.

Judge Andrew Gilbart QC told Taylor he had allowed his gift for music to be swamped by alcohol.

He said "What a thing to throw away for drink, the ability to be a musician, don't throw it away. If you come back before me, I'll send you down."

Stuart Martin, prosecuting, told the court around 5pm on September 21 2006 a call was received from the address on Chatburn Road, Clitheroe saying someone was badly injured.

Taylor later said he had broken into the property and had woken up and tried to get out and smashed a window and injured himself.

Fraser Livesey, defending, handed the judge various certificates relating to Taylors musical achievements including outstanding student award and performer of the year. Taylor was now receiving treatment for his alcoholism.