A BURGLAR who smashed his way into a family home and stole treasured rings belonging to the householder's late mother has avoided an immediate prison sentence.

Karl Wright, 22, of Stockbridge Wharf, Riddlesden, escaped from the address in Clayton, Bradford, with a locked briefcase containing items of great sentimental value, Bradford Crown Court heard today.

He pleaded guilty to burgling the unoccupied address on August 2 last year while a couple and their children were on holiday.

Wright and an accomplice threw stones to smash their way in through conservatory and patio doors because they believed there was a large amount of money in the house, prosecutor Jo Shepherd said.

Wright made an untidy search and made off with the black case, containing three rings, a christening bracelet and irreplaceable family photos. None of the property was recovered.

Miss Shepherd said the rings belonged to the householder's mother who died at a young age. They were to be handed down through the family.

David McGonigal, Wright's barrister, said he had no previous convictions and he was very remorseful.

He was led on by his accomplice and made efforts to get the stolen property back.

Wright was a hard working man determined to keep out of trouble in the future.

The judge, Recorder Ian Harris, told him: "You have pleaded guilty to an offence that right-minded people view as loathsome."

Wright was sentenced to 16 months imprisonment, suspended for two years, with 200 hours of unpaid work and an eight month curfew order.