A “despicable and prolific” Enfield burglar who left his blood at the scene of a break-in has been jailed.

Gavin Prentice, 28, of Carterhatch Road, travelled to a house in Tonbridge, Kent, to commit the burglary last year.

Between November 20 and November 22, Prentice gained entry to the house by smashing glass in a rear door.

Kent Police said he then completed an “untidy” search of the house, before making off with a quantity of gold jewellery.

Upon their return home, the victims reported the crime to police who subsequently found blood where the burglar had cut himself at the point of entry.

Prentice’s DNA was confirmed following analysis of the sample and he was arrested at his home address on January 19.

Having pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court, Prentice was jailed for two years and four months on March 23.

Detective Constable Celia King of Kent Police said: “Prentice is a prolific burglar who thought he could travel to Kent to anonymously target residents.

“He stole jewellery of considerable sentimental value but left his DNA at the scene which has led to his arrest.

“This despicable criminal gave no thought to the impact on his victims – none of the stolen jewellery was recovered and he certainly deserves to serve some time in prison.”