Police dogs joined a major search of a wooded area for thieves who fled after a raid on an electrical store in Halesowen. Officers searched woodland for three hours.

The 14 officers combed the half-mile stretch of woodland where a suspect went into hiding. Two dog handling teams were also involved.

They eventually arrested a man, aged 41, from Worcester on suspicion of theft.

Police were called to reports of an alarm ringing at Comet in Dudley Road at 10pm yesterday.

Four men were seen fleeing the scene on foot and one was spotted running into the woods between Comet and Melbourne Road and Furnace Hill.

Due to weather conditions the police helicopter could not be sent out to the scene.

Detective inspector Will O’Connor, from Halesowen CID, said: “A search was made of the area and one of the dog handlers located a suspect shortly before 1am.

“He was arrested and in custody helping police with enquiries.”

Det Insp O’Connor also said police recovered a Ford Transit van near Comet.

The vehicle had TVs and sound systems inside believed to have been stolen from the store.

Witnesses should call police on 0845 113 5000.