OFFICERS were led to a thief who was hiding in some bushes thanks to a trail he left behind him.

At around 2.50am on Saturday, officers in Rossendale were contacted about two men breaking into vans on Burnley Road East in Waterfoot.

Whilst on route the offenders were disturbed and tried to escape while in possession of tools which they had stolen.

A spokesman said: “Immediate response officers quickly arrived on scene and found a trail of tools and equipment leading towards a wooded area.

“A male was located hiding in bushes a short while later and was arrested for theft from a motor vehicle.

“All of the victims tools were located nearby and were returned to them shortly afterwards. The male is now enjoying breakfast at Greenbank custody.

“Rossendale Police will continue to work hard in bringing those to justice who continue cause misery and grief to the hard-working people of Rossendale.

“We hope that this provides van owners with some reassurance and we would like to remind people to lock their vans and put extra security measures in place to help deter any potential thieves.”