Career crook smashed Burnley shop window

Andrew Purvis, 37, was caught on town centre CCTV carrying out the midnight attack. Officers stopped him and found a brick on the inside of the window.

The town's magistrates were told how Purvis accepted it was him. Mrs Tracy Yates (prosecuting) said: "He said he was shocked and unsure why he did it. He did say he was sorry for causing the damage."

The court heard the defendant had 75 offences on his record and was currently subject to a community order for burglary. He received a nine month community order with a 15- day rehabilitation activity requirement on March 15th. The latest offence was committed when Purvis was going into rehabilitation. He was due to start dialysis for kidney problems soon.

The defendant's probation officer felt further punishment would not be of benefit to the public.

Mr Mark Williams (defending) said Purvis had taken some tablets at the time. He appeared to be responding well to the current order.

The solicitor added: "He is in a supportive relationship but it is going through a rocky patch and he might be moving out."

Sentencing, the Bench chairman told the defendant: "We all felt you acted extremely recklessly. You affected a business on the high street, in very, very difficult trading conditions."

Purvis, of Colbran Street, Burnley, admitted damage on April 27th. He was ordered to pay £300 compensation at £5 a week.