A HOUSEBREAKER who struck at a near neighbour's home was found trying to hide in a bedroom.

Burnley Crown Court heard Michael Sparks, 22, had been seen as a figure in the dark by police after they arrived at the property in Tong Lane, Bacup.

He was arrested and claimed somebody else had pressed him into committing the offence. He said when police arrived, his accomplice had made off.

Sparks, of Tong Lane, who had been on licence at the time, admitted burglary.

He was sentenced to three years in jail which Judge Michael Byrne ordered he serve after the 250-day unexpired portion of a previous sentence.

David Pickup, prosecuting, said an intruder forced a rear kitchen window and got into the property.

Neighbours heard noises and contacted police.

Officers arrived and spotted a shadow in the bedroom of the house. They went upstairs and found Sparks trying to hide in a small gap next to the wardrobe.

Mr Pickup said the defendant was arrested and admitted the burglary. He said he was on drugs and somebody else had pressed him into committing the offence.

Sparks had 42 previous convictions, including 12 for burglary.