A heroin addict who robbed an 80-year-old widow in her home was jailed after a judge told him he had ruined his victim's life.

Stephen Newland forced his way into Margaret Horner's home with a screwdriver in his hand before bundling her into her lounge during the terrifying ordeal.

Newland, 32, of Withyham Avenue, Saltdean, is today behind bars after being sentenced to five years in prison.

He stole Mrs Horner's jewellery and ornaments, which he planned to sell to pay off a drug debt.

However, police stopped his car in Brighton after a neighbour took his registration number and reported it.

Newland pleaded guilty to robbery. Guildford Crown Court, Surrey, heard he had previously been jailed for robbery, burglary and causing the death of a friend by dangerous driving.

He had convictions dating back to 1971.

Recorder Peter White told Newland: "You have an appalling record.

"You have almost certainly ruined the rest of this lady's life, robbing her in her own home. She will never feel safe for the rest of her life."

Simon Sterling, prosecuting, told how Newland had called at Mrs Horner's home in Esher, Surrey, last November 11, asking to buy broken china.

Four days later, at about 4.15pm, she heard a knock at the door.

When she unlocked the front door Newland bundled her through the hall.

He was carrying what she initially thought was a knife, but later realised was a screwdriver.

He demanded money and jewellery and took £50 from Mrs Horner's purse.

He pushed her into the lounge and put a silver Georgian cigarette box and an ornate French clock into a shopping bag before demanding they go upstairs.

Newland rummaged through drawers and a bedside cupboard to take other items.

He also demanded rings and earrings she was wearing.

Police called to her home found Mrs Horner had bruising and a cut to her left elbow.

The stolen property was recovered when Newland was taken to Brighton police station.

Louise D'Arcy, defending, said Newland planned to use the screwdriver to jemmy the lock of Mrs Horner's front door.

She said: "To that extent it was premeditated but he didn't know she would be in at the time. He did not plan to assault her in any way.

"When panic took over, he behaved in a way which he deeply regrets now. He showed immediate remorse by asking about the welfare of Mrs Horner."

Miss D'Arcy said Newland had been abusing heroin and committed the robbery to pay off a large drug debt.

She said: "He doesn't put that forward as an excuse but it goes some way to explain his behaviour. He was desperate."