BURGLAR Ross Dixon got into the home of a 91-year-old woman, grabbed her around the neck then forced her to hand over her £400 savings.

Today, he was starting an eight year jail sentence for a crime that disgusted a whole town.

Sentencing bespectacled Dixon, judge Tom Longbotham told him: "One can only imagine the terror she must have felt. This was a terrible offence and the effect on a lady of 91 is incalculable.

"The public must be protected. And those who are tempted to commit crime must know that when they commit an offence of this nature the courts take these matters extremely seriously."

Swindon Crown Court heard how Dixon (pictured), 32, had gone for a drink last October to celebrate getting a job after spending only 10 months out of prison in 11 years.

He decided to break into the flats for the elderly at Cockram Court in Medgbury Road, and turned his attention to Vera Howell. The pensioner, who is just 4ft 10 ins tall, was woken by a ring at her door at 11.30pm.

Prosecuting, Stefan Richards said: "A man appeared from the flat and he grabbed her under her arms. He told her 'come on, in here and be quiet'.

"She was walked into the bedroom and put onto a bed. The man had alcohol on his breath and she felt his glasses."

Mr Richards said Dixon grabbed her around the throat with his right hand with his thumb pushed against her neck.

The pensioner fell to the floor and was pulled to her feet by Dixon who walked her to her kitchen and took her £400 savings before leaving.

Forensic evidence later matched Dixon to the scene and he admitted his actions to police in interview.

Defending, Chris Smyth said his client had been analysed as moody, restless, with moderate to severe psychopathology.

"He has expressed extreme regret," Mr Smyth said. "He does appreciate the impact on this elderly lady. He does have genuine remorse about it."

Dixon, of County Road, Swindon, admitted two burglaries and one attempted burglary.

The court heard he has nine convictions for 34 offences, including robbery, rape, burglary and actual bodily harm.

Moved by story of brave pensioner

SECURITY boss Andrew Broadfoot was so moved when he saw an Advertiser story about Mrs Howell that he decided to help her.

Mr Broadfoot, 42, learned that the stolen money had been saved by the pensioner for a new refrigerator.

The boss of TAB Security, in Victoria Road, said: "My mum is 72 and I read the story and thought what about if this happened to her?

"The lady who was robbed is 91 and she has been through two World Wars.

"It was such a low thing to rob her, whether it was £2 or £200.

"I am pleased she reported the crime because I am a great believer that if you report it the police can try to solve it. I had no hesitation in buying the fridge freezer for the lady."

Police today praised the bravery of Mrs Howell, who managed to summon help by pulling an emergency cord.