A MEMBER of a gang who tried to raid a designer clothes shop in Oswaldtwistle last October is awaiting sentence.

Jason Richardson, 32, was caught by a police dog handler after officers from two forces and a helicopter had chased the would-be thieves.

Richardson, who lives in Manchester, admitted attempted burglary and was bailed until May 2 by Judge David Pirie. He has 16 previous convictions for burglary.

Sara Dodd, prosecuting, told Burnley Crown Court that Originals, the targeted premises, had been locked and secured with roller shutters and bars.

At about 10.30pm, people living nearby were alerted by the sounds of banging and the shop's alarm going off.

Four men were seen and some of them appeared to be ramming the side window of the premises. Others had a sledge hammer and were attacking the main shutters.

Police were contacted but by the time they arrived the would-be raiders had left. The registration number of their van, which had been stolen that day in Cheadle Hulme, was taken.

Miss Dodd said the vehicle was seen leaving the A56 and going on to the M66 and police cars from both Lancashire and Greater Manchester forces were called in.

The van was eventually stopped near the Ashton under Lyne turn-off, by which time dog handlers and the Greater Manchester police helicopter were in the pursuit.

Richardson was detained in some bushes, arrested and made no comment when interviewed by police.

Miss Dodd said damage to the tune of £1,000 was caused at Originals, though the gang did not get into the shop and nothing was taken.