POLICE in Darwen are hunting three people who tried to steal property from a garage in Egerton Road, Belmont, from under the owner's nose.

The three offenders, two men and one woman, were caught red-handed by the owner while loading up a white Transit van with a cupboard from the garage at 7.35pm on Sunday.

When confronted, they made off empty-handed, driving towards Bolton.

Anyone who was in the area and may have witnessed the incident should contact Darwen police on 01254 353842.