A HEROIN-ADDICTED father who was caught by police as he burgled a house has been jailed for 20 months.

Burnley Crown Court heard that Kevin Pearson, 25, of Heath Street, Burnley, had a long criminal record and that the authorities had made repeated efforts to help him fight his habit.

Judge Barbara Watson described Pearson's record as "long and tragic" and told him if he didn't conquer his addiction he would ruin his life.

She added: "Of course, nobody can help you with that until you are ready yourself to address your addiction.

Pearson admitted burgling a home in Waterbarn Street, Burnley, last March.

He asked for 15 offences to be taken into consideration.

The court was told that police were called to Waterbarn Street, and found Pearson found pulling out a gas pipe.

Francis McEntee, prose-cuting, said Pearson told police he had seen the back door of the property open and had been looking for scrap.

Mr McEntee said Pearson had been made subject of a drug testing and treatment order, but had breached it on a number of occasions.

Philip Holden, defending, said Pearson had been drug-free while in custody and had signed up for regular testing.

He added that while on remand, Pearson had time to reflect on his position.