A DRUG addict who raided and ransacked a pensioner's home while he was in hospital could remember little about it.

Burnley Crown Court heard how Frank Clark, 25, had been drinking and replaced his drug problem with an alcohol one.

Clark was caught by police after he tried to climb a wall but part of it came loose and he tumbled to the ground. He was jailed for two years.

Sentencing him, Judge Barbara Watson said he had a "profoundly depressing," criminal record, including 10 previous convictions for burglaries or attempts.

She added that the defendant, who was said to be full of good intentions, but who had difficulty translating them into action, planned the offence and had clearly had a good look around the property.

Clark, of Peel Road, Colne, had earlier admitted burglary with intent to steal at Leeds Road, Nelson, in February.

William Staunton, prosecuting, said the 90-year-old victim had been in hospital for two months and his home was being looked after by his nephew.

The nephew was contacted by a neighbour who heard noises coming from the house.

Police were called and found the curtains drawn but the lights on.

The house was found in a state of disarray, with property all over the floor. A police officer immediately recognised the defendant and said: "Hello, Frank."

Clark ran from the front of the house and police found a torch inside. The defendant was chased and carried on despite being warned a police dog would be released if he did not stop.

Mr Staunton said Clark was caught after he tried to climb over a wall, part of it was loose and he fell to the ground.

Kathryn Johnson, defending, said Clark had had a drug problem for 10 years but had recently been making efforts to overcome it.

He had always received a custodial sentence in recent years and he would welcome the opportunity for the court to put its trust in him.

Clark had very little recollection of his involvement in the burglary as he had been drinking. He had replaced one problem with another.