A POLICE dog has helped to foil two would-be thieves who were attempting to steal a moped.

The attempted theft took place overnight in Accrington along the tow path towards the canal.

The first suspect was detained by officers, with Police Dog Rhyker arriving on the scene shortly afterwards.

A police spokesperson said: "One suspect was detained by two legged colleagues before requesting PD Rhyker's assistance.

"Rhyker's chauffeur was already busy with another incident so arrived 40 minutes later.

"PD Rhyker is a hide and seek champ and showed his handler exactly which way the second suspect had gone.

"Off they went towards the canal, along the tow path and eventually Rhyker went straight into the bushes and before he could say ‘peekaboo’ the suspect shouted I’ll come out just keep the dog away.’"