A burglar who broke into two Kidderminster homes in one day and attacked a householder has escaped jail at Worcester Crown Court.

Recorder Asif said he was impressed by the steps taken by Andrew Burkett to address his drug problem. He hoped that imminent fatherhood would influence a change of attitude.

Burkett, 26, of St George's Place, Kidderminster, pleaded guilty to burgling the homes of Mrs Penelope Gilbert in Long Acre and Anthony White in George Street. He also admitting causing Mr White actual bodily harm by punching him in the face.

The recorder made an 18-month drug rehabilitation and supervision order with a condition Burkett attends a substance abuse programme.

He also ordered Burkett to pay £564 compensation to Mrs Gilbert and warned that custody would be automatic for another offence of burglary under the three-strikes rule.