A HALF-naked thief who tried to snatch a woman's purse in Rawtenstall town centre was jailed for 14 days.

Burnley magistrates heard how drunken and "laughing" Patrick Gilheaney, 25, tugged at shocked victim Beverley McKee's purse as she tried to carry a takeaway meal to her car and hold on to her money at the same time.

Gilheaney, who was bare-chested, was later picked out from a gang of fully clothed men, but denied being responsible.

The defendant, of Whittle Street, Rawtenstall, admitted attempted theft last July.

He was recently jailed for 18 months and the new term will run at the same time.

Sophie Lorimer, prosecuting, told the court Gilheaney tried to pull the victim's purse from her. He was laughing.

Mrs McKee gave details to a community support officer and they found Gilheaney among a group of people.

He was the only one bare chested.

Mrs Lorimer said he denied being responsible, but Mrs McKee positively identified him three weeks later.

Catherine Fell, defending, said Mrs McKee was not threatened or abused.

Gilheaney had had a lot to drink, had been stupid and was sorry.