A stolen car has been reunited with its owners after being spotted by a police officer on patrol. 

An officer from Dorchester Police attempted to pursue the car which had recently been reported stolen.

However, the assailant driving it was able to get away and proceeded to dump the vehicle in the grounds of a nearby business. 

Officers are examining the vehicle in an attempt to pursue those who stole the car.

The owners have been informed and where happy it had been found sound quickly.

A spokesperson for Dorchester Police said: "Today, whilst on patrol, Dorchester NPT Officer PC 2790 Brotherton spotted a vehicle being driven that had been stolen recently from within the team's area.

"Unfortunately, by the time he had turned his patrol car round the vehicle had made all haste and disappeared.

"It was found a short time later abandoned in the grounds of a local business and seized back by Dorset Police.

"The owner of the stolen vehicle has been contacted and is happy the car has been found so quickly.

"The investigative opportunities that arise from this vehicle are being exhaustively examined in our relentless pursuit of those who commit crime in our community."