Two people were arrested after a police and a force helicopter were used to help track them in some undergrowth.

At about 3.45am on Thursday, police were called to the Bystander Inn, Besslesleigh Road, Wooton, following reports of people in the grounds. Pc Amber Crawley and her dog Lloyd carried out a search.

Pc Crawley said: "Lloyd immediately took me to the rear of the garden which is surrounded by huge trees. Behind them was a high wooden fence and which led to a workers yard.

"He gave an indication that there was a presence of human scent in the trees but at that time it was hard to pinpoint. I went to behind the fencing and he took me to the same area and gave a definite indication. I could still not pinpoint the exact area so I requested for the helicopter to assist."

The helicopter used its thermal imaging camera, guided by Pc Ross Clarkson, to find a heat source in some undergrowth and guided Pc Crawley and Lloyd to it.

Pc Crawley added: "I took Lloyd to the area where the helicopter had directed me to and I saw a pair of boots. I gave a challenge and two men came out. They were then arrested."

A 19-year-old man and a 16-year-old boy were arrested on suspicion of theft. The 19-year-old man has been given a caution and the 16-year-old boy has been released on bail until Monday 2 June.

Sgt Paul Whitaker, of the Thames Valley Police dog section, said: "This incident demonstrates how the police dogs and Force helicopter can provide specialist skills and equipment to complement the work of officers. It is also a great example of how the different departments of the police family worked together in an excellent piece of teamwork."

Anyone with information about this incident can contact Pc Josephine Craig via the 24-hour Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 500 500. Alternatively, if you don't wish to speak to police or leave your name, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.