TWO house breakers who were thwarted by their victim and then caught by the police are both behind bars for two years.

Burnley Crown Court heard claims how Simon Barras, 27, and Kieran Myers, 26, had been "up to no good," scouring around Padiham looking for somewhere to raid. Their plan was scuppered when the householder returned to her Bear Street property and the duo fled.

Sending both to jail, Recorder Beverley Lunt told them they were both grown men and experienced in crime so she was not going to lecture them. She said they knew the offence was serious and only custody could be justified.

Barras, of no fixed address, formerly of Bank Street, Padiham, must also serve the 16 months unexpired portion of a previous sentence. Barras and Myers, of Healeywood Road, Burnley, had admitted burglary and had been committed for sentence by the Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale Magistrates.

Kendal Lindley, prosecuting, said said the men got into the house on Bear Street but the householder returned and disturbed them.

Anthony Cross, defending Barras, said it was extremely sad and worrying to read that Barras knew he would have to go back to prison, probably for a long time.

For Myers, Zoe Nield said he knew he must face a custodial sentence. He apologised to the householder.