A WOULD-BE thief who broke into Costa Coffee shop in Woodley has been jailed.

Carl Everton Gikes, 36, of Picroft Avenue, Reading, pleaded guilty to one count of burglary other than dwelling with intent to steal at Reading Magistrates' Court on Friday, April 5.

He was sentenced to 18 weeks' imprisonment and was also ordered to pay a £115 victim surcharge.

It relates to an incident at 9.30am on Wednesday, April 3, when Costa Coffee shop in Woodley was burgled.

Gilkes entered the kitchen of the shop, but was seen by a member of staff and left empty handed.

He was arrested the same day and charged the following day.

Investigating officer, PC Robert Chevalier, of Loddon Valley station, said: “Officers arrived at the scene within minutes of being called, and an arrest was made the same day.

“This case shows how seriously Thames Valley Police takes burglary offences.

“We will attend as quickly as possible when we are informed of an offence, and those responsible will be brought to justice.”