A THIEF who broke into a shed in Old Basing and stole a bike and power tool has been caught red-handed on CCTV.

The resident, who lives in Manor Lane, has spoken of his shock after the items were stolen from his garden in an early-hour break-in.

The thief was caught on CCTV on June 24 crossing a neighbour's garden, before he proceeded to take a Marin Hawk Hill bike and a Makita angle grinder and exited via the route he came in back - across the neighbour's garden.

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Resident Paul, who has asked to be referred to by his first name only, had initially reported the matter to the police, stating the incident had happened late on June 23, but upon inspecting his neighbour's CCTV footage, realised it had actually happened in the early hours of June 24.

Paul said: "For me, I am a little shocked that he did this in daylight, albeit early in the morning at 5.15am. My instinct was that this was done in the dead of night. Unfortunately for me, the shed was left unlocked that night.

"It's a good reminder that no matter how quiet and safe an area, night or day you just cannot take any risk, it's always a good idea to spend some time ensuring your garden and house are secure. I am taking steps to enhance my security as you never know."

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Paul added: "If anyone else in the neighbourhood has CCTV in Old Basing, if they could check around 5am on Saturday that might be useful, as he may have had a car or scoped out other properties."

Police are now investigating and they have urged people with information or footage to get in touch. 

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: "We received a report of a burglary on Manor Lane, Basingstoke, on 23 June at around 11.55pm.

"It was reported that a bicycle was stolen from a shed at the property.

"This incident has been filed pending further information, if anyone has any dash cam or doorbell footage that may assist they can call 101 with reference 44230252172."