A BURGLAR who became trapped by a security shutter when he tried to rob a petrol station has been jailed for six months.

Paul Davies, 47, called 999 for help when he became pinned to the ceiling at Asda Eastgate, Basildon, in the early hours of Saturday morning.

His actions came to light when the petrol station manager was alerted by the alarm going off, Basildon Magistrates’ Court heard today.

Davies also called police himself, shouting: “Basildon, near petrol garage. Help me!”, before the call cut off.

Lesley Chipps, prosecuting, said: “The manager arrived to find he was trapped against the ceiling.

“There is a security barrier concealed in the counter which rises if someone crosses it who is not meant to.

“During police interview, Mr Davies was fully compliant and provided a full admission.”

Davies, of Thistledown, admitted one charge of burglary with intent to steal when he appeared before magistrates.

Parm Panesar, mitigating, said Davies had worked as a landscaper until about three weeks ago, but had lost his job.

Davies, who has previous convictions for theft and burglary, was also ordered to pay £60 compensation to Asda.

He will also have to pay a £180 court charge after his release from prison.