A THREE-year-old Jack Russell terrier scampered home after wrestling his way free from van thieves in East Lancashire.

The dog was whisked away when opportunists stole a Ford Transit panel van at the Texaco garage in Whalley Road, Simonstone, at around 7.40am yesterday.

Frantic searches were launched across East Lancs for the dog and the missing vehicle, which had D&D Wallwork, emblazoned on the side.

Last night Lancashire Police said they had discovered the missing van, which contained a substantial amount of tools and steel, in the Rosegrove area of Burnley.

People who are able to assist with information about how the van was stolen can contact Pc Michelle Boggis on 101.