A Slough burglar who confused a vulnerable elderly man in thinking he owed him cash before stealing £80 has been jailed for four and a half years.

James Gardner, 41, approached the home of an 85-year-old man in Seacourt Road, Langley, and offered to carry out some work for him on February 27 this year.

Gardner then managed to confuse the pensioner into thinking he owed him money.

He went into his home and told him he required payment.

When the elderly man went to find his wallet and questioned Gardner about the payment, Gardner snatched £80 from his hand and then fled.

Fortunately, he was caught on CCTV leaving the man's home and was arrested and charged with burglary dwelling on March 13.

Gardner, of Grampian Way in Slough, was jailed for four years and six months at Reading Crown Court on Wednesday, July 17 after pleading guilty.

Investigator Fiona Macleod, of Slough Local CID, said: “I am very pleased with the outcome of this investigation and would like to thank the responding officers and members of the public who were prompt in disclosing CCTV evidence to the police.

“The prosecution case relied on the CCTV which captured Gardner in the area at the time. This meant he had little choice but to plead guilty.

“I hope this prosecution provides comfort to victim and local community. I believe this demonstrates the commitment of Thames Valley Police to bring burglars to justice.”