AN intruder who was caught by the man whose house he was burgling has been given two-and-a-half years jail.

A judge heard how Stephen Houghton switched on a light to startle the culprit, took hold of him and managed to restrain the struggling Lee Holden until police arrived.

The 26-year-old defendant had carried out previous burglaries, though none of homes.

Holden, of no fixed address, had been committed by magistrates for sentence at Preston Crown Court, having pleaded guilty to an offence of burglary.

Miss Lisa Boocock, prosecuting, said Mr Houghton was dropping off to sleep at home in Kingfisher Close, Blackburn on May 19 this year.

He heard a noise and after going quietly to investigate he spotted Holden rummaging through his bedroom cupboards.

Miss Boocock said: "He took hold of the defendant and took him into his bedroom from where he telephoned the police.

"The defendant struggled throughout and was restrained on the floor.

"The police attended shortly afterward and found a pocket watch, credit cards and cash and other property worth over £800 hid in his clothing."

Mr Tony Cross, defending, said that Holden was hopelessly addicted to heroin.