Ageing criminal stole handbags

A prolific predator who targeted pensioners' handbags asked a court judge to give him a lengthy jail sentence.

- by Nick Frame

David Clarkson conned his way into one woman's home then followed another home and snatched her handbag.

The 68-year-old, who has 41 burglaries in a long criminal career, was handed a new eight-year jail sentence at Leeds Crown Court.

He had asked for an extended sentence to reflect his remorse, saying he deserved it, although the judge felt it was not necessary.