A prolific burglar's spree came to a crashing halt when police found him hiding behind a wheelie bin.

Jason Higgins, formerly of Ingram Close, Larkfield, was stealing from cars and garages in Snodland.

He has been jailed for two years after appearing at Maidstone Crown Court.

Police found him hiding behind the bin after a burglary in Veles Road last year.

When they searched his car they found more than 50 stolen items which linked the 43 year-old to other crimes, including an attempted burglary and a spate of thefts from motor vehicles.

Kent Police had been called to the road in October to reports a Renault Megane was being driven without headlights. It was further reported that a man was then seen walking in and out of driveways and peering into parked vehicles. Officers found Higgins hiding behind a bin in a victim’s garden shortly after he had broken into a garage.

A search led to the discovery of car keys belonging to vehicles including a Ford, Fiat and BMW. He was also in possession of large screwdriver and a torch. A mini pick axe and hammer were then found inside his Renault Megane, plus stolen items including a flat screen TV and a wallet.

Higgins was charged with burglary and with thefts from three vehicles, attempted burglary and driving while disqualified and with no insurance.

He pleaded not guilty to all charges, but has been sentenced to 24 months for the offences.

This included three months for breaching a suspended sentence in 2012. He was also disqualified from driving for a minimum of twelve months and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £100.

DC Raj Dusanjh said: "Higgins is a persistent offender who has been caught completely red handed.

"He has shown absolutely no remorse and has refused to take any responsibility for his crimes, but will now have time to reflect on his actions."