Two men from Nelson robbed an elderly man of his mobile phone, TV and multiple watches.

Robert Gaina, 18, and Richard Chamberlain, 33, were wearing dark clothes and making loud noises outside the victim's flat in Carr Road, Nelson. 

Gaina started to urinate against the wall before owner of the flat, David Halstead, went out to see what the commotion was.

Preston Crown Court heard that Mr Halstead, who is in his 70s, invited Gaina and Chamberlain in his flat on February 3.

After they refused, Chamberlain proceeded to demand money from Mr Halstead and said: "You have got money and I need money", the prosecution told the court.

The pair were only in the flat for approximately 60 seconds, but managed to escape with Mr Halstead's mobile phone, TV and multiple watches.

Mr Halstead was unaware if the pair had a weapon, and told the court in a statement: "This incident has completely shattered my confidence.

"I used to be very sociable but now I cannot leave the house on my own.

"I have moved a considerable distance but I do not feel safe to attend church which has made a detrimental effect on my health."

In mitigation for Gaina, James Heyworth told the court the defendant has been addicted to crack cocaine and was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident, days after turning 18 years old.

Daniel Harmon, for Chamberlain, and said his autism and Asperger's conditions meant he had struggled with education since he was 13.

Chamberlain and Gaina both pleaded guilty to the charge of robbery.

In sentencing, Judge Darren Preston said: "You both have addictions of drugs and alcohol that you are working to overcome.

"You have both expressed your regret and I hope that your behaviour changes. 

"If it does not, your time in custody will be much longer."

Chamberlain was jailed for 18 months, with Gaina locked up for 26 months.