A HEROIN-addicted criminal is learning new skills for a life of freedom, Burnley Crown Court heard.

Mark Jackson, 34, who had dozens of previous convictions, had been learning German and maths while on remand in custody. His barrister told Burnley Crown Court he was a "talented and conscientious artist" and played the bass guitar, but the only chance he had to do it was when he was behind bars.

Jackson, who had been confronted by his victim after targeting his Burnley home, was sent to prison for eight months, to run consecutively to 77 days of an unexpired sentence.

The defendant, of Hudson Street, Burnley, had admitted burglary and had been committed for sentence by Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale Magistrates.

The court was told victim Mark Clegg was at his Lowerhouse Lane, home, last February, when the defendant knocked at the front door to see if anybody was in. There was no answer and thinking the property was unoccupied, Jackson went round the back and broke the rear door.

Mr Clegg confronted the intruder standing in the kitchen and went to get help.

Jackson in the meantime escaped, but if he had not got away would have stolen property to fund his drug addiction, the court heard.

The offence was committed while the defendant was on licence for wounding. David Temkin, prosecuting, told the court Mr Clegg later identified the defendant. He was arrested but made no comment to police questions.

Tim Storrie, defending, said Jackson was embarrassed about the confrontation.

The offence was not prolonged, was not accompanied by threats of violence and the defendant hoped Mr Clegg was not unduly alarmed by his experience.