In news that will break a smile among Bolton residents, a prolific burglar was recently jailed for a term of three years.

The burglar, Paul Tillot, 39 years old, is a resident of Woodvale Grove, Bolton. He was sentenced by Bolton Crown Court after pleading guilty to burglary charges.

On 7 September 2008, at around 2am, Tillot broke into a home on Landore Close, Radcliffe. Tillot used the garden spade and shears of the 58-year-old victim to force entry through a window at the front side of the property.

Once he gained entry, Tillot stole a camera and cash. He also ate food form the victim’s kitchen before leaving through the back of the house.

Police officers were successfully in identifying Tillot from past offences and subsequently charged him for the burglary. Detective Constable Michael Kennedy from Bury’s Volume Crime Team said that he was pleased that Tillot, a repeat offender, has been held accountable for his crimes.

The Detective Constable also added that Tillot had shown no respect for the homes that he burgled and no respect for the victims who lived there.

There are a number of simple yet effective ways of deterring people from entering your home. It is important to keep the doors and windows securely locked, even when you are present at home. Additionally, having security safes ensures that the valuables placed in them are secure and well protected.