WITNESSES are being urged to come forward after a burglary where a man attempted to steal a car from the driveway of a house.

The incident took place at a property in Church Street, West Chiltington, which happened at around 10.10pm on Thursday, June 8 - the day of the recent general election.

The offender got in via an unlocked door and stole a purse and car keys.

He then tried to steal a vehicle from the drive but was disturbed by the householder and ran off in a northerly direction.

He is described as white, aged 45-50, of average build and with short dark hair. He was wearing a blue top and carrying a dark "duffel type" bag with cream-coloured straps.

A 44-year-old man from Bognor Regis was been arrested on suspicion of burglary and released under investigation.

Tom Carpenter, of the West Sussex Community Investigation Team, said: "The suspect is believed to use the rail network to travel around before walking considerable distances to target premises.

"I'd urge anyone who saw a man fitting the description given, who saw or heard anything suspicious or who may have other relevant information to come forward.

"In particular, I'm keen to hear from anyone who may have driven between Pulborough and West Chiltington between 5pm and 10pm that evening and who may have 'dash cam' footage of their journey available."

Anyone able to help is asked to email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk, report details online here or call 101, quoting serial 1637 of 08/06.

Alternatively they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 (www.crimestoppers-uk.org).