A burglar who broke into a home and stole almost £32,000 of property - including a wedding and engagement ring - has been jailed for 25 months.

Father-of-four Richard Page smashed the glass in a rear door at the house in Fountain Lane, Barming, while the owners were out on September 14 last year.

The 32-year-old, who has previous convictions for burglary, ransacked the master bedroom, leaving it in what police called "a complete and utter mess".

Prosecutor Robert De Banzie said Page was caught because he left behind a latex glove containing his DNA.

The property stolen included owner Mrs Patel's Indian jewellery of sentimental value, which has not been found.

An iPad and camera were recovered after Page was disturbed by a neighbour who chased after him. He had been seen climbing over a garden fence.

Page, of Beaumont Road, Maidstone, at first denied being responsible, but he admitted burglary when he appeared before magistrates.

He disputed the value of the items taken, but magistrates found against him and committed him to Maidstone Crown Court for sentence.

Simon Wickens, for Page, said he offended out of desperation as he had lost his job and his own venture of house clearance was not a success. He had become addicted to gambling.

"He is married with four children, aged 14, 12, 10 and four,” said Mr Wickens, who gave his time free because Page was unable to obtain legal aid.

"His wife is outside court. She cannot bring herself to come in. She has depression and is on medication."

Judge Philip Statman said such offending had "terrible consequences" on the rest of the family.

Page has spent 85 days so far on a tagged curfew. These will count towards the sentence.