A BOGUS caller targeted residents in sheltered accommodation and assaulted a member of staff who confronted him, a court heard.

Gavin Frank Cummings was yesterday warned he faced a custodial sentence of at least three years, after admitting his latest offence of burglary.

Durham Crown Court heard that the 18-year-old drug user conned two residents out of money claiming to have been a window cleaner calling for payment.

He then took a wallet after gaining entry to other premises in St Godric's Close, Newton Hall, Durham, on October 19.

When confronted by a member of staff, he carried out the assault, biting his victim.

Cummings, of Fieldside, Pelton, near Chester-le-Street, admitted causing grievous bodily harm, burglary, and obtaining £10 and £8 by deception, by claiming to be a window cleaner.

Sentence was adjourned pending preparation of probation reports.

Remanding him in custody, Judge Guy Whitburn warned Cummings: "Although this was a serious offence of biting, by virtue of the guilty plea to burglary, you will be subject to a mandatory three-year sentence.

"That's the least sentence one would impose.

"Bogus callers, sheltered housing, vulnerable victims and a serious assault on a man who was trying to safeguard their interests - a consecutive sentence might be appropriate.

"I regard this as an extremely grave matter, although I may not be the judge who sentences you.

"Whether that's the view of another judge, I don't know."

Defence barrister Euan Duff, who requested preparation of pre-sentence reports, said: "He's only 18 and he's had drug problems. But, the defendant is under no doubt he's looking at a substantial length of time in custody."

Cummings will remain in custody pending sentence on January 31.