A MAN who admitted to conspiring to burgle on 'an industrial scale' from homes across Berkshire has been jailed.

Myley Connors was sentenced to eight and a half years in prison for his role in thefts from 18 homes across Bracknell, Wokingham, Reading and Hampshire.

The 24-year-old was sentenced at Reading Crown Court on November 19 after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit burglary and possessing a stolen vehicle.

The offences accounted for more than £76,000 worth of jewellery and other valuables being stolen, with more than £3,000 worth of damage to the homes.

Connors, of no fixed abode, is from Dublin and used a stolen car to carry out the offences.

Investigating officers said he came over from the Republic of Ireland with the intention of stealing from homes.

He would wait until they were at work and left 'a trail of devastation' behind, damaging property before he left with valuable goods.

While awaiting sentencing, Connors was found in possession of a mobile phone in his prison cell and was subsequently charged and convicted of this offence.

Connors was sentenced to two months imprisonment, which is to be served consecutively.

The judge overseeing proceedings described Connors offending as being carried out on an industrial scale.

Detective inspector Mike Bettington, said: “During the first six months of 2018, Myley Connors travelled from the Republic of Ireland to the UK with the specific intention of committing burglaries to people’s homes.

"He targeted houses while the residents were out, often at work, leaving a trail of devastation on people’s lives as they often returned home to find their homes ransacked, property damaged and their loved possessions and valuables gone.

"Although some stolen property has been recovered, many items of financial and sentimental value may never be.

"My team have worked tirelessly in order to catch and convict Connors for these offences and give justice to the many victims of his crimes.

"Thames Valley police continue to take burglary very seriously and will relentlessly target those responsible and bring them to justice.”