A LONER has been jailed after developing an 'unhealthy obsession' with a single mother.

John Raymond Wood, 20, who had previously stolen the hairdresser's knickers off her washing line, got sexually aroused as he raided his victim's home, a court heard.

Police later found a collection of women's underwear at the defendant's home after he was caught by an eagle-eyed police sergeant.

Wood was jailed for 19 months by a judge who said he had had a 'fetish' with the woman neighbour after she had shown him some kindness -- in a life which otherwise had none.

Recorder Tanya Griffiths, who had heard from Wood's barrister how he had been lonely and needed help, said he had a 'disturbing fascination' with the woman and went on: "It's not all about you. There is another person in this sorry tale -- the victim -- and the public would expect me to protect her."

Recorder Griffiths said the defendant, who needed to be near the victim and be in her life, had destroyed her and her daughter's security in their home and his pre-sentence report showed he was at high risk of causing harm.

Wood, then of Portland Street, Nelson and bailed to live at Highfield House, Lydia Street, Accrington, had admitted burglary and theft.

Arthur Stuttard, prosecuting, said at about 3am the victim got up, noticed a window open and the key in the door lock. Her handbag had been moved and more than £100 was missing.

The woman was absolutely petrified and was so terrified she did not think of ringing the police until the following day.

Wood was later arrested for possessing cannabis by a sergeant involved in the burglary investigation.

The officer noticed Wood's footwear corresponded with footwear he recollected from examination of the break-in scene.

Mr Stuttard said the defendant was arrested and at his home police found women's underwear, including that taken from the complainant's washing line.

Roger Brown, defending, described the case as unusual and said Wood was not wicked but was lonely and found it difficult to make friends.

The victim had shown him kindness, he hoped that would continue and when it didn't he committed the offence of theft. He said: "The kindness had been a break in an otherwise bleak world."

The defendant was extremely worried about going to prison and anxious that when he came out he would have no family left. He was worried for his younger sister after he carried out the offences.

Mr Brown said Wood could not complain if he was sent to prison, but he needed assistance.

The barrister went on: "It is a case where the court would want to know the defendant is not going to bother this young lady again. He not only needs help but can benefit from it."