A van thief was so keen to flee the scene of crime in Swadlincote on Wednesday that a dog was left behind in the confusion as the victims gave chase.

Swadlincote Police likened it to a scene from Wacky Races after the works vehicle was stolen from Winchester Drive.

The van's owner went after it while the Police were called.

But although the thief tried to get away, leaving the dog behind, he was arrested for theft and for a burglary in Linton in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

Swadlincote's Safer Neighbourhood Team managed to see the funny side.

They posted details of the incident on their Facebook page and said: "Wacky Races. We're guessing that the

Mean Machine had broken down, as it seems Swad's very own Dick Dastardly commandeered a works van from Winchester Drive today.

"Luckily our quick thinking victims not only got in touch with us, but also managed to chase after him.

"In his haste to get away, poor Muttley was left at the scene.

"He was arrested for the theft of the van, driving without a licence, driving without insurance and for a burglary in Linton in the early hours of yesterday morning.

"Let's hope Yankee Doodle will be delivering his charge sheet later today.

"Well done to our response group 1 and our SNT team.

"Muttley will be returned to his actual owner."