A man has been jailed after carrying out a string of burglaries across Cheshire, including thefts from churches and fraud against choir members.

Bradley Higham, 47, was sentenced to four years and four months at Chester Crown Court after admitting multiple counts of burglary, theft and fraud by false representation.

His targets included several churches, some Grade II-listed, and cultural sites such as the Lion Salt Works in Northwich, as reported by Northwich Guardian.

On one occasion, he broke into St Mary and All Saints’ Church in Great Budworth, stealing cash and bank cards from choir members which he later used for fraudulent purchases.

PC Gary Howard of Cheshire Police said: “Higham is a prolific offender, and I welcome the fact that he is now back behind bars."

Higham's previous convictions include stealing from Poppy Appeal tins and charity shops.

A police spokesperson previously said: “This man clearly holds no regard or respect for those he steals from.”