The police helicopter crew celebrated a success last night (Tuesday) after tracking a suspect through Sidmouth to his home address.

A man who claimed he was armed during a theft at a Sidmouth shop was tracked to his home by helicopter crews, police say.

Dog handlers and officers on the ground were also involved in the search.

NPAS Exeter tweeted that the suspect had been tracked to his rear garden gate and located in a shed using his heat signature.

A police spokeswoman said: “Police are investigating a theft from a shop on Woolbrook Road, which took place between 10pm and 10.15pm on Tuesday, February 6.

“A man entered the store and advised a shop assistant that he was armed and then left without paying for items.

“A police search ensued, assisted by the police helicopter and police dog unit.

“A 24-year-old man from Sidmouth was detained nearby. No firearm was located.”

NPAS Exeter said it was ‘awesome work’ by OD73, one of the dog handlers.