A THIEF who stole thousands of pounds worth of sentimental jewellery has been jailed for five years.

Anthony Hensman admitted burgling two homes in Gosport and Fareham, taking an array of items valued at around £15,000.

The 46-year-old first gained entry to a bungalow on Brockhurst Road, Gosport and stole a number of silver and gold rings, Portsmouth Crown Court was told.

The jewellery taken from the property also included wedding rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and dining silverware, which altogether was worth more than £4,600.

The court heard Hensman stole the items between April 25 and 26, this year.

In September, Hensman then broke into another home - this time on Veryan, in Fareham.

Breaking in through the property's first floor window, items worth more than £10,000 were taken.

In total, Hensman, of Westfield Road, was sentenced to five years behind bars.

Following the hearing, investigating officer PC Charlotte Pocock said: "This sentence shows how seriously the courts view residential burglary offences and the impact that this crime can have on victims, especially if items of sentimental value are taken.

"I hope Hensman’s admission and this sentence will provide all those involved with some closure on the matter."

Now police are reminding residents of steps to take to ensure their homes are safe.

The advice includes shutting all windows and locking them when you are not using the room, at night, and when you leave your property, lock all front and rear doors at night, put all car keys and other keys out of sight and leave a light on so your home looks occupied if you're going out in the evening.

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