TWO burglars who were photographed by a quick-thinking member of the public during a raid are beginning jail sentences.

Martin Wilson, 30, of Eldon Street, Darlington was sentenced to 44 months for burglary while Shaun O’Connor, 34, of Pateley Moor Crescent, Darlington was given 28 months for burglary and three months for theft of a bike. The two were arrested following a burglary at a property on Hatfield Road, Northallerton last month

The photographs of the offenders were then given to North Yorkshire Police and shared with the Durham and Cleveland forces, leading to the pair being identified.

O’Connor had stolen a bike off a Virgin train as it arrived in Northallerton before the burglary. The stolen bike was found by a 15-year-old boy in Romanby, Northallerton.

It was traced to its owner in Norfolk and has since been returned to him via a member of staff from Virgin Trains.

Detective Constable Janine Mitchell said: “I am satisfied with the result from court in relation to these two men. Burglary causes great distress amongst its victims and I am pleased these criminals are behind bars.

“I would also like to again thank the member of the public who acted quickly and took photos of the offenders. It is a fantastic example of communities and cross border forces working together to catch those who chose to target innocent members of our communities."