A burglar who used a duvet cover to carry jewellery, handbags, clothing, perfume and cash from a home in Maidstone has been jailed.

Alfie Springthorpe filled the bedding with a horde of items during a break-in on April 16, when the 26-year-old and an accomplice were seen entering a house in Jasmine Court.

Unbeknown to them a witness took a photo of the offenders leaving shortly after, carrying a holdall and a duvet cover bulging with the victim’s possessions.

A suspicious Range Rover seen parked close-by was traced by officers to Springthorpe’s home in Castleton Road, Eltham in London.

The vehicle was then spotted in the Shipbourne area on April 21 and Springthorpe was arrested.

Aftershave and motorcycle gloves were discovered inside the Range Rover and these were identified by the victim as having been stolen.

During police interview Springthorpe claimed the front door of the burgled property had been left open and that he had found a cannabis cultivation growing inside.

He added he had intended to steal plants and whilst inside also took some of the items reported as missing.

Kent Police crime scene investigators found no evidence to support his claims of a cultivation and Springthorpe appeared before Maidstone Crown Court charged with burglary.

He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 22 months imprisonment. His accomplice remains outstanding.

Detective Constable Raj Dusanjh said: "Springthorpe helped himself to cash and a number of precious items including engagement rings and wedding bands.

"He then concocted a story about the property being used to grow cannabis in an attempt to diminish his actions.

"Thanks largely to the vigilance of local residents Springthorpe has now faced justice for his crimes."