A RAIDER who struck at two businesses in a day refused to talk to police but was brought to book after "ample" forensic evidence against him.

Burnley magistrates heard how prolific criminal Stephen Hargreaves -- who has more than 100 convictions at the age of 23-- was now institutionalised and jail had no effect on him whatsoever.

The defendant was remanded in custody until December 17. Hargreaves, of Brush Street, Burnley, admitted burglary with intent to steal and burglary on July 4.

Bill Maude, prosecuting, told the court the premises of Rothwell Engineering Supplies on Lomeshaye Industrial Estate, Nelson, were broken into although nothing was stolen.

Police arrived and saw the defendant at the wheel of a car with three passengers. It made off at speed, was chased and Hargreaves was arrested. He made no comment to officers.

Just before midnight the day before, a supervisor at DRB Engineering, on the same estate, had locked up the premises. The roller shutter doors were later forced open and industrial gloves taken. They had been found in the car Hargreaves was driving but he again made no comment.

Mr Maude said the defendant was released pending "ample," forensic evidence which then linked Hargreaves to both raids. Hargreaves had 101 previous convictions. David Lawson, defending, said prison had no effect on Hargreaves.