A MARRIED couple told a court of their devastation after a heroin addict, released early from prison, broke into their home and left a trail of blood.

Prolific burglar Paul Goodwin cut himself after smashing his way into the couple's house, then bled all over the possessions of Kevin Lowther and his wife.

In 2006, Goodwin, of Gravesend, had been jailed three years and was on licence when he committed the burglary.

Mrs Lowther was said to have been so deeply affected by the intrusion, she decided to retire early from substance abuse work.

Maidstone Crown Court heard the 44-year-old thief had a long history of offending and faced a minimum of three years imprisonment under the "three strikes" law.

Jailing Goodwin, of Hope Hostel, The Avenue, for three-and-a-half years, Judge Andrew Patience said: "The effect on this family is indescribably dreadful.

"Such a statement as Mr Lowther made illustrates just how awful the effects of a domestic burglary are."

Anne Phillips, prosecuting, said Mr Lowther returned home to Chatham to discover the break-in. A drain cover was used to smash a window.

The bedroom had been ransacked and a flannel used to mop up blood. Jewellery, including a gold medal that belonged to Mr Lowther's grandfather, was missing.

When arrested, Goodwin was wearing one of the watches he stole from the house.

Goodwin had a history of crime dating back to 1980.

Richard Travers, defending, said Goodwin had been a heroin addict since the age of 15 and his life had been ruled by drugs.

He said: "His progress has come to an end with the commission of this offence.

"The only thing he can hope for is that lessons have been learned."