A serial burglar has been jailed after his DNA was detected on a garden spade used to break into a home in Larkfield.

Nathan Mahoney of Acorn Close, Five Oak Green, Tonbridge was sentenced to three years in prison after he also targeted properties in East Peckham and Mereworth last year.

On 12 March, 2015 Mahoney took a spade from a garage at a property in Lunsford Lane, Larkfield. He used it to force a conservatory door and once inside the property stole cash and jewellery.

Jewellery valued at more than £10,000 was also stolen from a house in Hale St, East Peckham on 9 May, 2015. Mahoney used a garden spade to force a conservatory window. The victim’s computer tablet engraved with the words ‘happy 70th birthday, we love you’ was also taken.

Forensic swabs from a garden spade recovered from the conservatory in Larkfield later led officers to search Mahoney’s home.

Inside, police discovered the stolen engraved computer tablet. A bike stolen in a third burglary from a property in Butchers Lane, Mereworth, between 4 and 8 May, 2015 was also retrieved.

After Mahoney, 34, was arrested a pair of his trainers was also forensically linked to a shoe mark left at one of the crime scenes. However, during police interview Mahoney denied any blame.

He appeared for trial at Maidstone Crown Court where on the first day he then pleaded guilty to three counts of burglary and one of handling stolen goods. On 1 August Mahoney was jailed for 3 years and 2 months.

Detective Constable Neil Buckle said: "The forensic evidence, along with the stolen items we found at Mahoney’s home proved beyond all doubt he was guilty of these crimes. We also had evidence of a man seen with a distinct limp, which matches the description of the offender who has difficulties which affect his walking.

"Mahoney was a prolific offender who posed a persistent threat. His actions will no doubt have long term and profound effects on his victims. I hope they will at least be assured that he has now got the sentence he deserved."