A FARM worker sneaked into his employer’s bedroom and stole jewellery worth £3,500, magistrates heard.

Benjamin Benford, 23, was one of three agricultural workers at Heyhacks Farm, in Burnley Road, Bacup, placed under suspicion after the theft was uncovered, Burnley magistrates were told.

Prosecutor Alex Mann said the victim had kept around 100 nine-carat charms in a drawer in her bedroom.

But it was clear the drawer had been disturbed and a jewellery box was missing. Staff had been clearly told they were not allowed into the house. Benford immediately admitted guilt and was arrested after the police were called.

Ben Leech, defending, said his client fully accepted he had trespassed and he had co-operated soon after the theft was uncovered.

Benford, of Mayfield Drive, Morecambe, who admitted the January 2 burglary, was committed on bail for sentence at Burnley Crown Court, on a date to be fixed.