Householders in Tunbridge Wells can breathe a sigh of relief after a prolific burglar who plagued the area for years was banned from the town for 10 years.

Michael Maloney raided high-value properties for more than 25 years – despite receiving jail sentences.

Now after again conspiring to steal from more secluded and well-off properties, a judge has issued a Criminal Behaviour Order barring him from going to the town.

Maloney, of Nettle Way, Minster, Sheppey, admitted a burglary conspiracy and received a sentence of six years.

His barrister Craig Evans told Maidstone Crown Court the father-of-three welcomes the ban as he wants to quit thieving.

Prosecutor Andrew Forsyth told how a cleaner spotted the raid in Broadwater Down after the occupants were holidaying abroad.

He said: "Tools had been used to remove a safe which had £1,200 and £115,650 in high-grade watches and £4,400 in jewellery.

Police later seized a mobile phone from Moloney and discovered it contained images of the watches.

The owner later told police: "I really hope whoever is responsible will be brought to justice and does not have the opportunity to repeat this crime and inflict distress on others."

On April 16, Maloney broke into a house in Frant Road and Station Hill, Wadhurst, East Sussex where he left blood at the scene and crime scene investigators later recovered his DNA.

The 42-year-old was arrested on suspicion of committing this burglary on May 18.

Officers also seized his mobile phone.

Investigating officer DC Celia King said: "This prolific criminal targeted a number of properties over a short period of time and stole valuable items, some of which were of sentimental value and can never be replaced.

"Maloney gave no thought to his victims and it is entirely appropriate that he is now serving a prison sentence."