A man has been jailed for eight months for burgling a Dartford home and escaping in a stolen car.

Scott Francis, 30, of Woolwich, was convicted of burglary dwelling, driving a car knowing it had been taken without the owner's consent, making off without payment and driving while disqualified.

He had driven a Toyota Corolla, which was reported stolen from a house in Bexleyheath overnight in April, to a house in Brentlands. Francis broke into the house around 12.20pm and stole a pair of hair straighteners.

Witnesses called police and officers tracked the car to a nearby petrol station, where Francis had filled up with £59 of fuel just prior to the burglary before making off without paying.

Metropolitan Police officers later spotted the vehicle in Roberts Street, Plumstead and pursued it. The car was located abandoned in Walmer Terrace - just metres from Francis's home address.

He was arrested at 9.45pm and charged with burglary and vehicle offences. He appeared at Canterbury Magistrates' Court this week. DC Mark Donovan said: "Francis had driven a car he knew to be stolen to Dartford, where he forced his way into somebody else's home and stole their possessions.

"Just before this, he stole fuel from a petrol station and tried to evade police. Unfortunately, many burglars believe they are above the law and that they have the right to steal, lie and cheat in order to make a small profit for themselves.

"We won't tolerate this and Francis's swift apprehension and charge should send a warning to anyone else who believes they can act in this manner."