TWO burglars were caught in the act and fled the house they broke into.

Police have launched a probe after the burglary in Hobleythick Lane, Westcliff, between 3pm and 3.15pm on Monday.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "Two men were disturbed during the burglary and fled. One ran off into Hobleythick Lane and the other jumped over a rear fence into an electrical substation bordering Southend High School for Boys.

"It is believed they then left the area in a car parked in Prittlewell Chase.

"We would like to speak to anyone who saw what happened or saw two men acting suspiciously in the area at the time.

"We are also keen to speak to anyone who lives in the Hobleythick Lane and Prittlewell Chase area and has CCTV or doorbell camera footage."

Contact PC Mike Ward at Southend CID quoting reference number 42/3043/20 on 101 or email at 77330@essex.police.uk.