HUNGRY burglar Shaun Wilson tucked into a coconut cake during a cafe break-in – only to leave his DNA behind on a plate for police.

The 42-year-old took a big bite after breaking into a Newcastle cafe and stealing about £140.

Cafe owner Tracy Wild discovered the burglary the following morning after finding a smashed window and the half-eaten coconut cake.

And Wilson was then arrested after forensics officers took the cake away for laboratory tests and found the defendant's DNA on some of the crumbs.

Now Wilson, pictured, has been handed a suspended prison sentence after admitting the burglary at TJ's Cosy Cafe, in Hassell Street, on December 4.

Clair Moss, prosecuting at North Staffordshire Magistrates' Court yesterday, said: "The owner had left the premises secure the previous night, but when she got to work the following morning, she found the cash-flow tin and staff tip box strewn across the floor.

"A charity collection box for the air ambulance had also been forced open.

"In the rear storeroom a small window had been smashed and two iron bars had been removed.

"There was also a cake near the point of entry which someone had taken a bite out of.

"It was seized by scenes of crime officers and they were able to get a DNA hit, which matched the defendant."

The court heard Wilson had more than 100 similar cases on his record.

After being arrested, Wilson, of High Street, Halmerend, told police he had suffered a relapse in his heroin use and had burgled the cafe to buy some drugs.

Rob Hill, defending, said: "The defendant is deeply embarrassed by his behaviour and made full early admissions about his actions.

"He has had a relapse but wants the chance to prove to the court and himself that he can keep out of trouble."

Wilson was jailed for 12 weeks, suspended for a period of 12 months with supervision. He must also pay £731 in court costs and compensation to his victim.

Following the case, Staffordshire Police's head of forensics John Beckwith said: "This is a great example of a quality criminal and forensic investigation.

"Through utilising the latest DNA technology we have quickly identified the individual involved.

"DNA is a key evidence type and we utilise DNA profiling on a daily basis in all types of crime. DNA results are usually returned within seven days or even on the same day if urgently required.

"Along with fingerprints, DNA regularly provides the identity of individuals associated with crime and can be crucial in police investigations."

The cafe owner was unavailable for comment.