A BURGLAR who stole £2,000 worth of power tools has been jailed for two-and-a-half years.

Anthony Newall, 30, raided a home on Wheler Street, Houghton-le-Spring, Tyne and Wear while the occupants were out in September.

Newall, of Sunderland Street, Houghton-le-Spring helped himself to a variety of expensive items, including a chainsaw, petrol-powered hedge-cutter, strimmer and leaf blower.

He was caught on CCTV and initially denied any involvement but admitted one count of burglary at Newcastle Crown Court earlier this month.

Detective Constable Alex Hadwin said: “Anthony Newall is well-known to police, and his prolific offending proved his downfall.

"A number of officers instantly recognised him from the CCTV clip.

“Burglary is a crime that can have a lasting impact on victims and communities.

"As a result, we offer no apology for our firm stance against this kind of criminality and we will continue to actively pursue offenders and ensure they have their day in court.

“Newall is one of a number of burglars in Sunderland and South Tyneside who have been locked up in recent weeks, and we hope this helps to send a strong and clear message to other offenders. You will be pursued, you will be caught and you will be brought to justice."