A HOUSE breaker who terrorised a 94-year-old woman in her bedroom, is behind bars for nearly five years.

Burnley Crown Court heard how Craig Kennedy, 32, had burst in as the pensioner woke, demanded cash and then lifted her mattress causing her to cling to the covers to stop herself falling out of bed.

Kennedy who then went on to raid a couple's home during the night, was sent to prison for four years and must also serve the 330 days unexpired portion of a previous sentence.

Jailing him, Judge Barbara Watson said what he had done had been "despicable." Kennedy, of Glenroy Avenue, Colne, admitted two counts of burglary.

Julian Taylor, prosecuting, said the defendant burst into the elderly woman's bedroom and demanded money.

He found a wallet with £20 in it, told the woman she must have more than that, lifted up the covers at the foot of the bed and helped himself to two purses.

Kennedy was arrested the next day and denied the offence, but forensic evidence provided strong support.

Mr Taylor said about a month later Kennedy was arrested for a burglary in Nelson and was interviewed again about the first offence.

Anthony Cross, defending, said he was not asking for a pre-sentence report as Kennedy knew he would be going to prison. He was full of remorse and should be given credit for his guilty pleas.