Man jailed after couple’s terror ordeal

Mark Harrison entered the bungalow in Revesby Drive, Skegness, through a window that had been left open.

Phil Howes, prosecuting, said the occupiers woke in the early hours and the man, who is in his 60s, was confronted by Harrison.

“The intruder growled and went towards the man who retreated into his bedroom.

“The husband and wife pulled the door handle to because the intruder tried to force his way in.

“They repelled the attempt and they pretended to ring the police and the intruder left. This enabled them to call the police.”

Harrison left taking a laptop computer and a small amount of cash.

Mr Howes said that early the same morning Harrison burgled another property in Revesby Drive stealing a mobile phone and some batteries.

The court was told that Harrison has 22 convictions for 52 previous offences including 14 house burglaries.

Harrison, 45, of Clarke Way, Skegness, admitted two charges of burglary on 24 November 2019. He also admitted possession of heroin and cocaine which was found on him when he was arrested. He was jailed for three years.

Lisa Hardy, in mitigation, said that Harrison managed to kick as long-standing drug addiction and got himself a hob and stable accommodation before things went wrong for him.

She said he was attacked suffering serious facial injuries and lost his job.

“He ended up relapsing and taking drugs. He is ashamed and embarrassed by what he did.

“Clearly this was drug-fuelled. He cannot recall the incident with the door handle. He can’t imagine he ever intended to confront anybody and is mortified.”