A MAN faces a long spell behind bars after being convicted of burning down his neighbour's shed.
Shortly before the arson attack, Geoffrey Vaughan, 62, was captured on CCTV leaving his flat in West Road, South Ockendon and carrying newspapers and liquid as he headed towards 82-year-old Margaret Barker's shed in the communal garden area.
He was also spotted by other residents outside his flat around the time of the incident.
At Basildon Crown Court Vaughan was found guilty of arson, being reckless as to whether life was endangered.
During the trial the jury heard how the defendant was suspected of burning down Mrs Barker's previous shed the year before but after extensive enquires by police he was released without charge.
Vaughan, who has a previous conviction for assaulting a neighbour and a caution for verbally abusing another resident at the sheltered housing complex, gave evidence and denied the allegation.
Judge Rupert Overbury adjourned sentencing so a psychiatric and probation report can be prepared on Vaughan.
He was remanded in custody and will reappear at the court for sentencing in February.
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