CROOKS trying to steal a moped from a property were stopped by its owner who caught them in the act.

The police were called by the resident in Colchester after he disturbed the would-be thieves.

A police community support officer attended the scene and carried out CCTV inquiries before recovering the moped.

“[It] will now be subject to a forensic examination before being returned to the other,” said the force.

They added: “Thieves often shop for particular bike models. Using a cover instantly makes it less attractive to them.”