A MAJOR police search was launched in Inverkip late last night in a concerted effort to catch a man suspected of stealing from cars.

Officers were actively patrolling a number of areas in relation to recent thefts from vehicles when they were alerted, at 11:35pm, to a male allegedly trying car doors, gaining entry to a vehicle on Glen Crescent in the village.

On police arrival, a foot pursuit ensued through gardens.

Sergeant Jason Logsdon said: "The suspect hid, requiring a number of officers to secure a perimeter and conduct a systematic search of the area.

"The suspect was found hiding in bushes, arrested in possession of items allegedly stolen from the vehicle, possession of substance believed to be cannabis and a lock-back knife."

The 27-year-old has been held in custody to appear at Greenock Sheriff Court.