A Southampton burglar was caught red-handed trying to steal electric bikes by a police dog.

Frankie Hunt forced his way into several sheds on Lyndhurst Road in Ashurst in the early hours, causing damage in the process.

Police were called out and officers including police dog Blaze and their handler were sent to the scene.

The German Shepherd found the 28-year-old inside trying to steal two electric bikes.

Hunt, of Ennerdale Road, was handed a 12-month community order, which includes 100 hours of unpaid work, at Southampton Magistrates' Court.

He must also pay £440 in compensation, a £114 victim surcharge and £85 in costs following the incident at 1.30am on Monday, September 9.

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Leading the investigation into the burglary, PC Mike Chapman said: “I am glad Hunt has been held accountable for this crime.

“A lot of hard work went into this case, and I am glad for the victims that Hunt has had to face up to his crime and reflect upon his actions that night.

“Everyone should be able to go to sleep at night without the worry of their residential property or outbuildings being broken into and items stolen.

“I hope this sentence offers others out there the reassurance that we will always work hard to arrest, charge and prosecute offenders.

“This should also send out a very clear message to others thinking of doing similar that we will do all we can to ensure you are brought before the courts.”

Lyndhurst Road in Ashurst (Image: Google Maps) The owner of the bikes wrote to the police to thank them for their efforts.

They said: "An excellent and timely response to our 999 call to report an ‘intruder on premises’.

"A very much appreciated series of updates from a number of custody officers involved in the investigation.

"And finally, a very impressive crime scene investigator who visited our home the morning of the offence.

"We appreciate all of the valuable time it will have taken in writing up endless statements, reports, case file prep, interviews, etc.

"We are very impressed with all involved in our burglary incident, and are very grateful to all police officers and staff who have had any dealings with our case."