A BURGLAR who tried to apologise to homeowners after being caught trying to set fire to their sofa has avoided jail.

Paul Grundy, 37 of Westford, Wellington, was given a suspended jail sentence at Taunton Crown Court on Tuesday.

The court heard how on August 30 last year, Mr and Mrs Peters returned to their home in Rockwell Green to see Grundy trying to set fire to the sofa in their living room.

Mr Peters confronted Grundy and a struggle broke out between the pair before the defendant fled the scene.

But less than an hour later, Grundy returned to the house to apologise and was arrested by the police.

A blue Ikea bag was found near the property containing a number of stolen items including electrical equipment, passports, a dumbbell, and shoes.

However, not recovered were an engagement and wedding ring.

Defending, Rebecca Bradbury said that the case was unusual because Grundy had returned to apologise.

She added: “He is truly sorry for the upset and distress he has caused.

“It is unusual that someone would feel that remorse that they would return to the house to apologise.

“He has been devastated by his actions and he has been seeking help.”

Sentencing, Recorder Paul Dunkles said: “I need to make clear that burglary is a serious offence.

“It is no surprise that Mr and Mrs Peters have been left unsettled and anxious in their home, even more so because they returned to find you there.

“But I accept the submission that yours is an unusual case as you returned later to apologise and I take into account the fact that you pleaded guilty.

“You are a fortunate man to have the support of your wife and family.”

Grundy was given an eight-month jail sentence suspended for 12 months, a supervision order for 12 months and alcohol activity for ten days for the burglary.

He was also ordered to pay £709 compensation and a victim surcharge fee.