An “outstanding” police dog helped to track down an alleged car thief in bushes after a search in the early hours of the morning.

Four-year-old German Shepherd PD Tsar sniffed out a suspect in bramble bushes after a stolen Range Rover was abandoned.

Tsar’s good work helped police to arrest three men on suspicion of stealing the vehicle in the early hours of March 2.

PC Toby Spires, Tsar’s handler, said: “PD Tsar and I were called in to help track the second man.

“Tsar is an outstanding dog and loves his work, and soon located the second suspect trying to hide in brambles.”

Officers were called after the Range Rover was taken from a driveway in St Leonards in the early hours of March 2.

The vehicle was later traced to Crowhurst Recreation Ground where two men ran from police.

One was detained by Sussex Police officers while the other was tracked down by Tsar.

A third man was also later arrested.

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Officers seized equipment believed to be used to break into cars with keyless entry systems.

Detective Chief Inspector Karrie Bohanna, of Sussex Police, said: “We have seen criminals targeting keyless entry vehicles for theft and use in their criminality.

“We are aware of the impact this criminality has and our teams are working hard to disrupt criminal groups using our roads to steal these vehicles.

“Owners can take the simple steps such as keeping key fobs in Faraday bags and using a steering wheel lock to help prevent crime.

“We also ask communities to be vigilant to these kind of incidents, and to report any suspicious behaviour to us to inform our policing response.”

Three men aged 18,19 and 21 were arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle. The 21-year-old was also arrested for possession of Class A and Class B drugs.

All three have been bailed pending further enquiries.