A BURGLAR who targeted a Winchester pub has narrowly avoided a prison sentence.

Bradley Coombes, 32, admitted stealing a purse at the King Alfred on Saxon Road, Hyde, on December 1.

Magistrates in Basingstoke heard that he sneaked into a first floor linen cupboard to take the item.

Coombes, of Jewry Street, Winchester, admitted the charge.

He was jailed for 12 weeks but suspended for 12 months and ordered to undertake a drug treatment programme, pay £100 compensation and £30 costs.