A BURGLAR stole two pet chickens and set them free in the wild because he thought they were being illtreated.

David Hesketh, who was caught on CCTV snooping around on several occasions in Litchfield Close, Farnworth, has been warned he faces jail by Bolton magistrates.

He then went back at 2am while the family were at home asleep, got into the chicken coop and stole two pets and a chicken feeder.

Later that day he was spotted by the family near their home, and they followed him back to his house in Elm Grove, Farnworth, and called the police.

Hesketh, pleaded guilty to burglary when he appeared at court yesterday.

The 41-year-old, who keeps pets including ferrets, rabbits, chickens and fish, told magistrates he was concerned about the chickens’ welfare.

He said he thought they were in poor condition, and would be better off being released so he set them free in St James field.

Hesketh added: “I am sorry for doing it, I just did not think.”

Christine McGawley, chairman of the bench, said: “This was planned and organised and you went equipped with a bag.

“You sized up the property on several occasions, tried to conceal your identity and tampered with the CCTV. On the face of it people might think it was two chickens and a feeder worth £90, but it is the sentimental value and emotional harm caused by your action which are actually quite despicable.”

The victim, who asked to remain anonymous, installed CCTV after having problems with anti-social behaviour. He was the victim of eight incidents last year.

He said: “He is like a little Ace Ventura, his house is full of animals. He said he let the chickens go.

“They are like pets to my daughter, she looks after them and was really upset. I hope the courts make an example of him.”

Mr Hesketh was sent to the Crown Court for sentencing.