Hammer raid at Hartlepool motorhome - as owner slept inside

Ian Fewster, who was attacked in his motor home that was parked outside his daughters house in Millpool Close, Hartlepool.

Alan Metcalfe and his girlfriend Tanya Watson were confronted by 58-year-old Ian Fewster, who was the owner of the motorhome and was sleeping in it, Teesside Crown Court heard.

The court heard there was a struggle where the victim was left with cuts and bruises after the raid.

Injury caused to Ian Fewster's knee by a claw hammer.

“The home was parked outside the house of a relation in Millpool Close in Hartlepool,” said Emma Atkinson, prosecuting.

“The owner was awoken by the noise of Metcalfe gaining entry.

“A struggle ensued during which the owner received cuts and bruises.

“Watson arrived on the scene and two of the home’s windows were smashed with a hammer.”

Mr Fewster said at the time the burglary had destroyed his faith in humanity, and he was going to have to reconsider his touring lifestyle.

The court heard Metcalfe and Watson were found the next evening in a house in Hartlepool which was being renovated for rental.

“The owner arrived to find them in her house,” said Ms Atkinson. “There was another confrontation during which the owner heard Watson shout to Metcalfe to get a knife.”

Metcalfe, 37, of Arch Court, Hartlepool, admitted burglary and damaging property.

Watson, 29, of Leas Walk, Hartlepool, admitted damaging property and two charges of affray.

All the offences were committed September 3 and 4, last year.

Ian Mularkey, for Metcalfe, said: “His record qualifies him for the minimum three-year sentence for burglary.

“He pleaded guilty, so I would submit he is entitled to the statutory credit.”

Andrew Teate, for Watson, said: “She has some difficulties which she doesn’t want me to outline in open court.

“At the time of these offences she was homeless and abusing substances.

“She has since made progress in her personal life, and is no longer in the relationship.”

Judge Howard Crowson jailed Metcalfe for two years and five months.

Watson was jailed for 15 months, suspended for 18 months, and she was ordered to pay £600 compensation to the owner of the motorhome.

The judge said: “Your position Metcalfe is quite straightforward.

“You are subject to the minimum term, less the statutory discount.

“Watson is of essentially good character, and I accept she has made attempts to overcome her difficulties.”