A PROFESSIONAL burglar who raided two Hampshire homes has been sentenced to four years in prison.

Reginald Bosanquet, 41, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to stealing cash from two properties in Bar End Road and King Alfred Terrace, both in Winchester, last year.

In mitigation, Adam Hiddleston asked for a lenient sentence as Bosanquet had handed himself in, pleaded guilty and taken only small sums of cash from the homes.

Winchester Crown Court heard how Bosanquet, who had 25 convictions for domestic burglary dating back to 1983, had gained access through insecure windows.

Judge John Burford QC said: “Because you have 25 previous convictions for domestic burglary you are a regular, professional burglar. The sentence that I pass is to protect householders from you.”