THREE suspicious men thought to be involved with burglaries in and around a town are now in custody thanks to the tireless work of a police dog.

It was a busy night for PD Rhyker and his handlers, who were out and about on patrol across the east of the county on Monday.

The first job involved a burglary at a business premise in which two suspects were disturbed by officers.

Both men tried to flee to scene before one was caught by an officer and the second was found hiding in a garden by PD Rhyker.

They were both searched and a mobile and stolen car key were recovered.

It wasn't long until the police dog and his handler were called back into action after a call was made about a man trying car and door handles in the Pleckgate area of Blackburn.

A police spokesman said: "Recently, we have seen an increase in burglaries and other theft related crimes in and around the Pleckgate, Revidge and Beardwood areas of Blackburn.

"In response, we increased our presence in and around those areas to try and catch the person responsible.

"In the early hours of this morning, we were made aware of a man trying house and car door handles in Pleckgate. As a result of already being in the area patrols were quickly on scene, and a 26 year-old-male decided to try and make a run for it. Unluckily for him he was never going to outrun Rhyker, one of our superb police dogs. The male was quickly detained and is in custody this morning awaiting interview.

"Really successful night for Rhyker and a well-earned rest in order today."