A WINSFORD burglar has avoided jail despite stealing electrical items from the council.

Stephen Poole, of Arkwright Close, appeared at Crewe Magistrates Court on Monday, June 26, to face two charges.

The first charge related to an incident on April 5 earlier this year when the 32-year-old entered a building in Winsford as a trespasser and stole a container of several items.

The second charge related to an incident later that month on April 25 when Poole stole electrical goods belonging to Cheshire West and Chester Council.

The value of all items stolen was unknown.

Poole, who pleaded guilty to both charges, was handed an eight-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months.

The court heard the serious nature of Poole's offences, and his previous record or similar offending, were the reasons for a custodial sentence.

Magistrates suspended the sentence due to the likely prospect of his rehabilitation and the impact it would have on his family.

Poole was also ordered to pay £500 in compensation and complete 80 hours of unpaid work.