A POLICE helicopter joined a search for a group of youths spotted running off with a television and other goods.

The young men were seen in the area behind Burnley Road, Blackburn, near Whitebirk, by local residents who called police at about 3pm yesterday.

Police officers detained one youth and the helicopter and ground patrols searched for more than two hours without making any further arrests.

Inspector Stephen Haworth said two other youths were arrested later last night and the three aged between 14 and 17, all from Blackburn, were being held in custody for questioning.

Property, believed to be from a house in Burnley Road, has been recovered.