A SERIAL offender who has racked up a staggering 307 convictions is back behind bars.

Jeremy Hector, 48, who has led a ‘life of crime’, found himself in trouble again after going on the rampage earlier this year.

Hector was arrested after stealing cash during a raid on a Tiverton launderette and then taking a car left running outside a shop in Bishops Lydeard just days later. Hector then filled it with fuel without paying and finally left the smashed up 4x4 dumped between two trees.

Hector, of Richmond Close, Sampford Peverell, was jailed for 30 months when he appeared at Taunton Crown Court via video link from Exeter Prison on Monday.

Judge David Ticehurst said: “You seem to wish to continue with your life of crime.

“I thought at your age you would have realised that you will get caught and you will go to prison.”

Hector pleaded guilty to burglary, aggravated vehicle taking, making off without payment and driving while disqualified.

The court heard how he stole pound coins from washing machines at the Whirly Wash as well as a cash box, totalling £45, when he smashed his way in on April 27.

Prosecuting, William Hunter said Hector was arrested and when on bail jumped into Robert Cross’ Mitsubishi Shogun which he had left running outside a shop on May 12.

A day later he filled the vehicle with £50 worth of diesel at the garage in Bishops Lydeard before speeding off without handing over the cash.

The car was found on May 14 and when Hector was quizzed by police they found he was banned from driving until 2017.

Defending, Harry Ahuja said the offences fell into the lowest category range and Hector took the vehicle with the intention of sleeping in it.

He said: “He is well aware of his previous offending. He is remorseful for his actions.”

Hector will not be allowed behind a wheel until his ban expires and he passes a driver awareness course.