A CARLISLE burglar was wrestled to the ground and restrained by a brave couple as he tried to steal from their city home in the dead of night.

Heavily-convicted Harry John Nicholson, 47, was tackled and caught red-handed by Linda and Michael Patterson after smashing his way into their terrace home during the early hours of March 20.

Carlisle Crown Court heard how the large, five-bedroom property close to the city centre was also used by the couple to care for vulnerable adults, who were inside at the time but unaware of the crime.

Gerard Rogerson, prosecuting, said Mrs Patterson went to investigate after hearing a noise. She saw a torch light flashing, and a figure.

Mrs Patterson alerted her husband, and then tried to take hold of the intruder as he attempted to flee. “Between them they managed to wrestle Mr Nicholson to the ground. He resisted and tried to get away,” said Mr Rogerson.

He was pinned to the floor while police were called. Nicholson was found in possession of two screwdrivers and the male occupant’s mobile phone, and had bundled a sizeable stash of electronic items into a suitcase ready for removal.

He told officers: “I’m too old for this. I’m bang to rights.”

About £2,000 damage was caused to the property, and the couple had since spent about £3,500 bolstering home security. Mrs Patterson, who slept in a chair for three nights after the break-in, later told police: “You should be able to feel safe in your own home.”

Nicholson, of no fixed address, admitted burglary with intent to steal. The court heard he had a staggering 280 offences on his criminal record.

His barrister, Alison Whalley, said of his latest crime - committed while under the influence of substances: “He has very little recollection and is ashamed of himself.”

Jailing Nicholson for four years, Judge Peter Davies said: “These offences have to be properly punished, and people in the community of Carlisle need to know that they are safe from these unwarranted attacks and invasions.”