Hiding shoplifter arrested thanks to six-year-olds

A prolific shoplifter is behind bars thanks to a pair of six-year-old girls who told chasing police officers he was hiding behind a bush.

The eagle-eyed youngsters spotted Alan Morris hiding in a garden while he was trying to escape police in Blackpool on 7 November.

When the 31-year-old, of no fixed address, tried to "shush" them, Lancashire Police said the brave young detectives shouted back: "I'm not shushing!"

Morris, who pleaded guilty to 21 shoplifting offences and interfering with a vehicle, was jailed at Preston Magistrates' Court for nine months.

Morris was also given a three-year criminal behaviour order which bans him from entering any Asda and Tesco in Blackpool.

Lancashire Police said the girls were visited by officers at their school assembly and presented with a certificate and chocolates.

Sgt Paul Regan said: "We wouldn't have been able to detain the offender anywhere near as quick as we did if it wasn't for the help of these two girls.

"They acted bravely and they should be very proud of themselves."

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