A burglar caught red-handed has been sentenced to more than two-and-a-half years in prison.

Police were called to Miller Close in Kemsley after a resident saw a light on in a cabin in his back garden.

He went outside and saw David Bignall, of Larkfield Avenue, Milton, inside with a second man.

The victim tried to trap the pair in the shed by holding the doors closed but they forced their way out and down an alleyway.

He followed them and caught Bignall as he tried to climb over a fence into a neighbour's garden, following his accomplice.

They struggled and 38-year-old Bignall pulled a screwdriver, assaulted the victim and made threats.

Neighbours heard the commotion and went to help the man to restrain the burglar until officers arrived.

"This prison sentence will ensure the residents of Sittingbourne are protected from Bignall’s criminal activities."

He was charged with burglary and going equipped to steal and assault before pleading guilty.

Bignall was sentenced to two years and nine months in prison yesterday at Maidstone Crown Court.

DC Nicola Lincoln said: "This burglar did not hesitate to use violence in an attempt to escape the scene of his crime.

"It is to the victim’s credit that he stood his ground and bravely held onto the offender until the arrival of patrols. I would also like to commend the neighbours who came to his assistance.

"This prison sentence will ensure the residents of Sittingbourne are protected from Bignall’s criminal activities."

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