A MAN has been jailed for four years and four months in connection with two burglaries in the Churchdown area.

Wesley James Marcus Bowen, 35 and of Orchard Avenue, Cheltenham was handed the sentence after pleading guilty to the break-ins, along with two shoplifting offences and possession of cannabis.

In one of those burglaries Bowen forced entry to the home of an 81-year-old Innsworth resident and stole two war service medals.

PC Matthew Rollason from Tewkesbury's anti-burglary initiative Operation Tudor said: " This is a good sentence that reflects the seriousness of the crimes committed. Burglary is a despicable crime that will not be tolerated.

"It was a long investigation but this result will be a relief for the victims and the local community of Churchdown."