A burglar suffered a black eye when he fell off a bike pursued by neighbours.

Anthony Kingwell, from Ashford, was jailed for four years at Canterbury Crown Court yesterday, for a burglary that occurred on September 2.

The 38-year-old was joined by a second man when he knocked on an Croft Road home and told the occupant he had moved into the street after being homeless.

He was given money after alleging he needed some for gas and electricity.

Later that day an alleged accomplice also called at the house requesting funds, while Kingwell entered the kitchen.

He was spotted rifling through bags by another occupant and subsequently fled, dropping the bag.

Five minutes after, he returned to the scene on a bike to find the homeowner speaking in the street with several neighbours.

Upon seeing the group he turned to flee but fell and suffered facial injuries. He then abandoned the bike and ran away on foot.

Mr Kingwell, of Otterden Close, was arrested two days later and has been in remand since.

A second man, 34-year-old Thomas Scorey of no fixed address, has also been charged with the burglary and will appear at Canterbury Crown Court in February after denying the offence.

Detective constable Graham Wilkinson, the investigating officer, said: "Kingwell's attempt to build a rapport with the victim before going on to steal from their home shows him to be a dishonest and calculating offender.

"It is incredibly distressing to be the victim of a burglary and I am pleased we have secured justice for those affected by this case.

"I would also like to remind residents that long winter nights, combined with people often leaving their homes to attend festivities, can provide opportunities for would-be thieves.

"Simple measures such as locking all doors and windows, and leaving lights on timer switches, are often enough to deter a would-be thief.

"Further tips on how to stay safe can be found on our website."

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