A CARE home worker has been jailed after he stole the life savings of a vulnerable adult he was meant to be supporting.

Father-of-two Andrew Rigby, 29, withdrew £700 cash from victim David Allan's bank account without his permission, Burnley Crown Court heard.

The defendant, of Thorn Grove, Colne, whose partner is expecting his third child, admitted four fraud charges in September and October last year. He was jailed for nine months.

Sarah Johnson, prosecuting, said Rigby had been a community worker at a home in Accrington for adults with learning difficulties.

The victim was a resident and was extremely vulnerable. He was diagnosed as having the functioning level of a four or five year old. He had a bank account and would withdraw money with the support of a staff member.

Miss Johnson said in October last year a manager at the home became aware of a number of withdrawals of cash from the victim's account. She contacted the police.

It became apparent cash to the tune of £200, £100, £300 and then £100 had been taken from ATMs in Accrington. Officers made enquiries, the CCTV footage from the premises were seized and they showed the defendant was in the relevant place at the time.

The prosecutor said Rigby claimed he had no recollection of taking the money. He said he had stopped taking the medication on October 16, because of blackouts.

Martin Hackett, defending, said Rigby could not remember committing the offences. He had no previous convictions. Rigby had not come to the attention of the courts since. The court could pass a suspended sentence.

The barrister added at the time the defendant had difficulties with his finances and his relationship and was said to be going through "extensive trauma."

Mr Hackett added: "The offences were not sophisticated. He was always going to be caught."