A BURGLAR who stole a contactless debit card was snared by CCTV in the Southampton store he was using it in, a court heard.

Daniel Bowden's victims were in their back garden enjoying a summer barbecue when he crept into their home, in Welbeck Avenue, on June 5.

He stole two rucksacks, one of which had a wallet in and also swiped an iPhone from the property.

The 36-year-old, who has 34 convictions for 61 offences, was later caught making two contactless payments below £30 at a shop at around 9pm on the same day.

The stolen phone was also tracked near to Bowden's home in Harefield Road, Southampton.

Southampton Crown Court heard the defendant's victims had gone back into their home and noticed items were missing before calling the police.

Despite being caught on CCTV making the transactions, Bowden maintained his innocence and was proven guilty after a trial.

In mitigation, Joanne Chester said Bowden was battling with an addiction while the offences were committed and had been in custody since October.

Judge Peter Ralls sentenced Bowden to one year in prison suspended for two years along with a 12-month drug rehabilitation requirement.

He said: "You have already spent some time in custody.

"You have a bad criminal record.

"Fortunately for you, this is not your third strike for burglary - if you do it again you will be facing imprisonment.

"This is an opportunity for you to take advantage of what is on offer."