POWER tools were taken from rural outbuildings in raids believed to have involved a stolen car.

Police are now seeking witnesses to the two incidents after the driver was detained.

In Fittleworth, near Pulborough, a shed was burgled and items stolen included chainsaws and a pole saw.

In Lurgashall, near Petworth, a garage was entered and a strimmer was stolen.

Officers later stopped a green Peugeot 306 car taken without consent and thought to have been used in the burglaries.

The driver was arrested on suspicion of burglary but his passenger ran off.

Some of the property reported stolen has been recovered.

The break-ins happened on May 2 and May 3, though police only appealed for information today.

A 50-year-old Petworth man has been bailed until June 19 while enquiries continue.

Detective Constable Lee Simmonds, of the Worthing Response Investigation Team, said: “I'd also like to remind householders to be vigilant and to ensure their properties, and in particular outbuildings, are locked and secured.”

Anyone with information can email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101, quoting serial 176 of 3/5.

Alternatively they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers without having to leave their name on 0800 555 111.