FOOTPRINTS were left in fresh cement by a bungling burglar whose Nike trainers gave him away.

Richard Gary Jenkinson, 35, stole two lengths of copper piping during the break-in into the insecure extension of a home in Darlington.

The intruder entered the back garden in the early hours between May 18 and 19 and climbed into the building which was being renovated.

Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court yesterday heard forensic examination matched footprints left in the newly laid cement to the defendant’s Nike trainers.

Jenkinson, of King William Street, Darlington, asked the court to take into consideration four other non-dwelling burglary offences having admitted last month’s offence.

A probation officer said the defendant had been out of trouble for a few years and on the evening in question had consumed alcohol and a drug used to treat anxiety.

Jenkinson was handed a 12-month community order.

He must complete 15 rehabilitation activity days, undergo drug rehabilitation and pay £700 compensation.