A SHOPLIFTER who dived into bushes to escape police found there was no hiding place for a dog patrol.

Martin McDonald complained to Blackburn magistrates the animal grabbed him by the leg and had shaken him.

But he was told any complaint should be made to the police.

McDonald, 26, of Glasson Close, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to stealing eight cans of lager. He was given a conditional discharge for six months.

Philipa White, prosecuting, said police called to the shop at 10.30pm were pointed in the direction of McDonald. He dropped the cans and ran into gardens oi Sulby Street.

She confirmed a dog patrol was called in and that McDonald had received injuries as a result of his detention.

McDonald said the dog came at him through a bush and went for his leg.

"It shouldn't have done that, it should just have held me there," said McDonald. "The policeman had to kick the dog off me."