Three would-be burglars have been arrested after they were forced to leave the scene empty-handed after a brave victim stopped the theft of a quad bike. 

At around 10pm last Wednesday (November 1), Durham Police received a call from a resident in the Teesdale area reporting suspicious activity at a neighbour’s address.

The victims confronted the men and bravely asked to see what was inside the van.

One of the suspects reportedly opened the door and removed the victim’s quad bike before they sped off from the scene.

The van and the would-be burglars were located several miles away in Bishop Auckland. 

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Three men, aged 41, 40 and 33 were arrested at the scene on suspicion of several offences including burglary.

A 33-year-old man has since been charged with driving without a licence and no insurance.

Enquiries are ongoing.