A BURGLAR who threatened to kill a man in his own home has been sentenced to 11 years in prison.

Raymond Spence, 37, of Dulnan Close, Tilehurst, was sentenced at Reading Crown Court on Friday (11) for aggravated burglary, damaging property and having an article with a blade or point.

He was convicted by a jury following a three-day trial in April.

The charges related to an incident on November 11 last year when Spence forced his way into a block of flats in Bamburgh Close, Whitley, causing damage to doors and using a knife to smash the glass window of the front door of his victim's flat.

The prosecution told how Spence had reached through the window with the knife and cut the 32-year-old man on the arm.

As Spence threatened to kill him, the terrified man was able to call the police and his attacker fled the scene. However, officers tracked him down in Reading town centre and arrested him.

Judge Prior said whilst sentencing that Spence posed a 'significant risk of harm' to the public at large, and to people who knew him.

He said: "In my view, there seems to be a high degree of culpability and no remorse on your part."

He was sentenced to 11 years in prison, and will serve an extra year on licence after being designated a dangerous offender.

Spence broke down in tears in the dock as he received his sentence, of which he will have to serve at least seven years.

Detective Constable Peter Cave said: “This was an extremely violent attack on the victim in his home address which has caused them significant distress and anxiety.

“Spence has shown no remorse for his actions and has lied throughout the investigation in a bid to avoid justice.

“I would like to thank the victim who has demonstrated immense bravery throughout the investigation and I hope this lengthy sentence acts as a warning to anyone who thinks carrying and using knives is acceptable – it’s not and we will take action against those who do.”