Police recover numerous stolen items in the Leamington area after a mammoth 18-hour shift

It all started at 5am yesterday (October 12), when officers went to an address in Southam and arrested a 47-year-old male from Southam on suspicion of a rural barn burglary in the Hatton area on September 6.

Once in custody Warwickshire Rural Crime Team officers conducted two searches at a premises connected to the man.

A spokesperson for the Warwickshire Rural Crime Team (RCT) said: "Officers from both Stratford Police and the Thames Valley Police Rural Crime Taskforce assisted with gaining entry to premises and we can ensure you that no stone was left unturned!

"During the search of premises in the Gaydon area, a number of stolen items were identified by the RCT and recovered. These items were subsequently linked to a further two rural barn and outbuilding burglaries in the Alverson, Pathlow areas.

"As part of our investigation three trailers were also recovered along with any tools or equipment associated with committing crime.

"After loading our vehicles to the brim we headed back to the station to start the many hours of paperwork required."

The suspect was further arrested in custody on suspicion of the further two burglaries and interviewed.

During the evening the officers were able to return any property identified as stolen to their owners.

The police spokesperson added: "After more than a few extra strong coffees, all the immediately required paperwork was completed.

"Watching the clock tick past 11pm having done a slightly extended 18 hour shift, it was finally time to hang up our kit belts."