Preston hotel burglar once had £24,000 a year job managing a call centre

Marcus Gardner, 26, of Egan Street, Preston, admitted stealing £510 from the reception of the Holiday Inn on October 8 last year.

He also admitted entering the property again days later and stealing cash.

He was arrested on December 7 and confessed, but while the case was investigated, he went on to commit thefts and an attempted burglary at a working men’s club.

Defending, Sharon Watson asked the sentencing to be adjourned to November 29 for a probation report, and revealed two years ago he had a stable relationship and a full time job earning £24,000 a year managing a call centre.

She said after his separation, he met another woman who was a drug addict.

She added: “He became addicted to crack cocaine and his life spiralled out of control. Since he’s been on remand he’s been detoxing.

“It’s his first experience of custody and has been a wake up call.”