A burglar - who stole water pipes and was found wearing clothes belonging to the firm renovating property he was squatting in - has been jailed for two years.

George Moses, 50, of Nelson Crescent, Ramsgate, appeared at Canterbury Crown Court yesterday charged with burglary, four counts of squatting, criminal damage and a public order offence for his threatening behaviour towards a resident.

Between July and September 2016 Moses removed the pipes from a basement flat in Nelson Crescent, where he was staying, and decorated the property.

Concerned neighbours called police several times and on one occasion he threatened an elderly neighbour after he was challenged for being on the premises.

In September 2016 he was caught inside another property in Guildford Lawn, Ramsgate, where building work was being carried out.

He was arrested after builders found him wearing clothing belonging to the building company.

Constable Steven East said: "Moses repeatedly entered a flat that did not belong to him and caused distress to local residents.

"He made it clear he wanted to live in the property and had even attempted to decorate it.

"His persistent actions along with his threatening behaviour have led to his conviction.

"Moses also received a Criminal Behaviour Order, which means he will not be able to revisit Nelson Crescent or its surrounding area for five years following his release."