A man will spend more than three years behind bars after admitting committing burglaries in a Kent village.

Carl Smith, 31, of Billet Hill, Ash, targeted three properties in the neighboring village of New Ash Green in one night last July.

At an address in Lambardes, Smith was caught on CCTV as he approached a front door and attempted to open it.

Later that night he forced open the front door of a house in Knights Croft and stole a handbag and its contents, he went on to damage the door of a third home.

Two officers subsequently recognised Smith from the CCTV footage at Lambardes and he was arrested days later on suspicion of burglary.

During interview Smith claimed he had been in bed at the time of the burglaries.

He was on licence when charged and was recalled to prison.

Appearing at Maidstone Crown Court on Tuesday Smith was jailed for three years and two months.

Chief Inspector, Tony Dyer, said: "Smith is a prolific burglar as shown by the fact that he was on licence when he chose to reoffend.

"His prison sentence will offer some protection to the local community and he should consider the effect his actions have on the victims of his crimes, some of whom were at home when he forced his way into their houses overnight.

"I would like to commend the victims who assisted us throughout the investigation and trial."

Please note: Carl Smith has no connection to the Billett Hill landowners who have the same surname.