A MAN broke into a mosque and stole cash after forcing open a safe.

Blackburn magistrates ordered the preparation of pre-sentence reports on Salim Ali, 28, after hearing that his previous record included four burglaries of mosques.

Ali, of Palmer Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to burglary at the Massin Noor Islamic Mosque, Audley Range and theft of £15.

Wendy Chappell, prosecuting, said a window was smashed to gain entry to the mosque and the safe had been forced using a screwdriver and a metal bar.

Ali was arrested as a result of fingerprint evidence, but at first denied the burglary.

He said his fingerprints were on the safe because he had been to the mosque to worship in the past.

"He confessed after being confronted with finger print evidence that was found on the screwdriver and the metal bar," said Mrs Chappell.

Jonathon Taylor, defending, said Ali was deeply ashamed of his actions. He said the father of three had been living rough after leaving the family home following a row with his wife.

"He found himself on the streets with no money and when he broke into the mosque it was his intention to take money from the donation box to buy food and help him survive," said Mr Taylor.

"These were the actions of a desperate man."