A BURGLAR has been spared jail after breaking into an outhouse and stealing a mountain bike.

Lewis Dutton, from Widnes, admitted burglary at Warrington Magistrates Court yesterday, Tuesday and was handed an 18-week imprisonment suspended for a year.

The 27-year-old, of Clapgates Crescent, targeted a property in Norton Village on November 14.

Cheshire Police have warned residents to keep their sheds and garages locked up after a number of similar incidents in the area recently.

Police constable Dawn Taylor said: “While we continue to arrest and charge those who commit thefts and burglaries, we would urge residents to think about their security and review how they can improve it.

“Often doors are unlocked and bikes aren’t secure, giving opportunistic thieves the chance to steal a bike or other valuable items from outbuildings or sheds.

“And with Christmas round the corner, it’s particularly important not to give them the chance.

“You can help us make it difficult for thieves by following a number of steps and denying them the opportunity to steal your hard earned property.”