A man has been charged with driving offences and a suspected stolen car has been recovered thanks to speedy work from a police dog and his handler.

Officers were called to Woodland Avenue, Brentwood, just after 2:30pm on Tuesday, February 2 after reports of a stolen Ford Mondeo.

The vehicle was spotted by local units from Brentwood and there was a short pursuit before it sped off towards Seven Arches Road where the occupants ran off.

Pc Simon Newman and his police dog Studs were dispatched to assist with a search of the area and one man was arrested after being found in woodland between Seven Arches Road and Ingrave Road.

Mark Davis, 29, of Newham, has been charged for driving without a license, driving without insurance and making off without payment.

DC Mel Keen said: “We are pleased to have recovered this suspected stolen vehicle.

"An investigation into the theft of the vehicle is continuing and we are appealing for anyone with information to contact Brentwood CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”