AN EAST Cowes man who burnt money and confidential documents in his family home and garden has been sentenced.

Darren John Clements, 51, of Hendy Road, appeared before the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court on Tuesday.

He admitted arson ­on March 18 of this year.

Prosecutor, Liz Miller, showed the court pictures of the damage caused to a living room carpet, money and personal documentation.

She said Clements' wife had returned home to find the door locked, blinds closed and black smoke pouring out of the house.

Firefighters subsequently called the police, and more debris was found in the garden.

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Ms Miller said among the burnt remains were red boxes, used to store paperwork and some money, as well as a driving licence.

She said more than £1,000 was also missing from a side cabinet, all burnt and destroyed.

The court heard Clements was located in a vehicle on the driveway, and a blow torch and flammable fluid was found in the kitchen.

Amy Hosell, defending, said Clements had undergone surgery years ago and suffered from severe pain and PTSD ever since.

Ms Hosell said the couple used to have a shredder, but had since been burning confidential documentation in the garden.

Ms Hosell said Clements thought he was burning rubbish, and had no intention of burning money or the house down.

He had then gone to a safe place ­— the family camper van ­— to take himself away from the situation.

The bench was told Clements was struggling with his mental health and wanted help to get better.

Ms Hosell said Clements realised what he had done and was very remorseful and keen to make amends.

Clements was sentenced to 12 weeks' imprisonment, suspended for 12 months.

He was given a six-month restraining order, and ordered to pay costs of £85 and a £128 surcharge.