A serial burglar who targeted several homes in broad daylight and was repeatedly caught on CCTV has been put behind bars.

David Howard, 53, of Keyes Road in Dartford, pleaded guilty to burglary, attempted burglary and handling stolen goods.

Howard burgled four homes in Dartford and attempted to steal from another between November 3 and November 9.

The first target was a house in Meadow Way, where Howard used tools to force open a back door and steal jewellery. CCTV nearby caught Howard on camera.

Two days later, properties in Invicta Road and St Vincent's Avenue were broken into, and tools were used again to force open doors.

Watches, old coins and jewellery were taken in these incidents, and Howard was caught on camera once again.

The last incident happened in Watling Street on November 9, when Howard smashed a window at the back of the house. Once again, Howard was caught on CCTV.

Howard was arrested on November 18 after a search warrant was carried out on his home.

When he was arrested, Howard was wearing a gold watch that had been reported stolen in one of the burglaries.

Howard was sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court to seven-and-a-half years in prison.

Detective Constable Rob Sircar, investigating officer, said: "I am pleased that we have been able to secure a strong, custodial sentence for a repeat offender who has caused a lot of distress to his victims.

"Not only did Howard violate the victim’s privacy, he caused significant damage to their property and stole items of sentimental value.

"There is little doubt that residents in Dartford are safer with Howard in custody."