A 27-year-old man from Epsom has admitted to committing two burglaries, including one at a local primary school.

Luke Andrews, of Pelman Way, Epsom, pleaded guilty on August 12 at Guildford Magistrates Court to charges of residential burglary and burglary at Epsom Primary School.

The incidents occurred on the evening of July 9, when Andrews broke into Epsom Primary School by smashing a window.

Once inside, he conducted a disorderly search and stole several iPads. His actions were captured on CCTV, and victim statements helped police identify and arrest him on August 9.

Andrews was also linked to a nearby residential burglary on the same night, where he gained entry through a skylight and stole jewellery.

The connection was made due to a distinctive coat he was wearing at the time. When officers searched his home, they recovered the stolen property from both burglaries.

Andrews has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to be sentenced on September 13 at Guildford Crown Court.

Burglary Lead for the Force, DCI Gareth Hicks, said; "The successful conclusion of this case, is in large part thanks to the hard work and dedication of the investigating officers.

"From arrest to charge, the team worked a 24-hour shift to ensure that the case file could be sent to the Crown Prosecution Service as soon as possible and another officer came in on his day off to assist.

"Andrews had only been released from prison in May after being convicted of other burglary offences, so the fast reaction of our officers meant that the risk to the local community was quickly countered. 

"Being burgled can have a huge impact on victims who are left feeling unsettled and unsafe in their homes. Where there are lines of enquiries, we will follow this up and look to bring perpetrators to justice.