A convicted burglar serving a life sentence set fire to his own cell while in prison on the Isle of Wight, a court has heard.

At the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court on April 16, Billy Williams, of HMP Isle of Wight, admitted one charge of arson.

On the night of January 17, prison officers were alerted to a fire alarm sounding and upon investigation, found a fire in the 31-year-old's cell.

They managed to put the blaze out and drag Williams out of the cell, Munayah Hassan, prosecuting, told the court.

Ms Hassan said Williams suffered no injuries, other than smoke inhalation, and was taken outside for fresh air.

Costs of damage to the cell amounted to £64.05, for repainting the floor, she said.

Williams, who has 19 convictions for 56 previous offences, is currently serving a life sentence for committing aggravated burglary, sexual assault and false imprisonment in Kent.

Defending, Georgia-Mae Chung, said Williams has already received punishment from the prison itself for his most recent offence and called for an absolute discharge.

Magistrates told Williams that arson is "serious" and warned "it could have been worse".

He was ordered to pay £64.05 in compensation for the damage.