BUNGLING BURGLAR CAUGHT ON CCTV

The man's face was caught on camera in the latest break-in

Detectives have released CCTV pictures of a man they believe has twice tried to break in to the same building society, only to leave empty-handed.

The would-be burglar used a crowbar to force open the door of Britannia in Preston city centre early on Friday, but fled when the alarm sounded.

Police believe the man spent 20 minutes trying to break in to the same branch on 2 February, but failed.

They are appealing for anyone who saw him on Lune Street to contact them.

He is described as white, about 6ft 3in tall and slim. The man was wearing a dark jacket, white T-shirt, blue jeans and white trainers.

He was seen placing several KFC advertising posters over the front door before trying to smash the glass in the latest incident.

He then used a sharp instrument, which police believe was a crowbar, to force the door.

Det Insp Ian Dawson, of Lancashire Police, said: "Although no property has been stolen from the premises it is extremely important we identify this male.

"On both occasions the offender was hanging around the area of Lune Street for up to an hour before committing the offence.

"On his first attempt back in February it would have been 11pm on a busy Friday night.

"The offender has placed KFC posters on the window of the building society which is extremely unusual."

BBC NEWS REPORT.