A BURGLAR sobbed as he was locked up for a month-long crime spree which left a string of householders devastated.

Ryan Blareau was jailed for two-and-a-half years for offences across Darlington between the beginning of August and early September.

Teesside Crown Court heard that he has 22 offences on his record - including three for burglary - and was on licence from his last prison sentence when he committed his latest crimes.

Blareau was said to have a long-standing cocaine addiction going back to his mid-teens, but has being doing well behind bars since his arrest and remand in custody.

His lawyer, Ben Pegman, said the 31-year-old had shown promise on a bricklaying course, and wants to start his own business when he is released.

Mr Pegman said: "What appears to be positive since his time in custody is the recognition of that addiction and the steps he is taking to address it.

"He has shown some insight to consider upon his eventual release he needs to tread a better course.

"He recognises the effect of his offending on the victims, and expresses remorse. With the drugs out of his system, he is able to appreciate the impact his offending has.

"Up until 31 years of age, it has been a depressing picture for Mr Blareau, who has never worked or attended a training course, but if he continues to progress there are grounds for optimism."

Prosecutor Emma Atkinson told the court that properties in Otterburn Close, Garrick Court, Minors Crescent, Barningham Street and Fairfield Street were hit during the spree.

A SEAT Altea was taken in one of the burglaries, and other items such as laptops, a mountain bike, iPad, a games console and cash were also stolen.

Christmas presents and tools which were being stored in a couple's caravan were taken, while they and their children slept yards away in their home.

Judge Peter Armstrong told Blareau: "Since you have been on remand you have made very good use of your time, and you may have found a talent you didn't know you had.

"With help to get you off the drugs, you might be able to get a skill that is legal."

Blareau, formerly of Martindale Road, Darlington, admitted six charges of burglary, two thefts - including stealing cookies and a sandwich from Asda - attempted burglary, possessing Class A drugs and handling a stolen bike.