Andrew Nolan, aged 21, broke a window to get into a home in Knotts Flats, North Shields, helping himself to an X-Box games console and clothes.

But the dozy burglar stopped his work when he came across a tin of Heinz baked beans and sausages, cooking it at the scene, eating it and then fleeing without cleaning up.

But when officers searched the property they quickly found the empty tin, covered with Nolan's fingerprints.

Nolan, of no fixed address, was arrested and admitted burgling the home between March 4 and March 6 of this year.

He was jailed for 15 months when he appeared at Newcastle Crown Court.

After the court case DC Nick Lawrance, North Shields Neighbourhood CID Team, told the News Guardian: "Taking and eating the tin of beans
directly led to this young man being caught by the police.

"You could say his hunger cost him his liberty.

"This was an unusual crime for the area concerned and we are pleased he has received a custodial sentence.

"I hope this sentence will deter others from committing burglaries and reassure the residents of North Shields that these type of serious offences are rigorously investigated."

DC Lawrance is the new North Shields neighbourhood detective, working alongside DC Keith Howells.

He added: "We're keen to hear from anyone with information about these
local crimes in North Shields town centre and Tynemouth areas.

"Please contact us on (03456) 043 043 extension 63032."