A MAN broke into his parents' home in Kidderminster because he was cold and wanted something to eat after being released from prison, Hereford Crown Court heard.

Alan Hutton stayed for two nights because they were away, said Richard Adams, prosecuting. And when he left he took a hi-fi and mobile telephone.

Hutton, 36, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to burglary and was given a two-year rehabilitation order on condition he lived in a probation hostel for six months.

Recorder Alan Dooley told him: "This mean offence must have caused considerable distress to your parents."

Hutton broke in through the back door of the house in George Street in December last year, said Mr Adams, but was spotted by a neighbour. Arrested a month later, he said he wanted food and to keep warm. He had sold the items he had taken.

Dele Alakija, defending, said it was a spur-of-the-moment offence which had caused Hutton to feel embarrassment and disgust. Hutton had had a drug and drink problem but was now free from both.