A thief was brought to justice after his dad reported him in possession of an expensive stolen tandem bike.

Mark Andrew Blamire, 29, was shopped after committing offences with two partners-in-crime.

Blamire received a 16-month prison term at Carlisle Crown Court for his role in the theft of pedal cycles worth more than £5,000.

Gerard Rogerson, prosecuting, told how three bikes were stolen from owners who were staying at Dockray Meadow caravan and camping site, Lamplugh, on the night of September 3.

Ronald Cooper's Orbit Lightning race tandem, valued at £3,000, was pinched. So, too, were Mark Robinson's Trek Domane and Corratec cycles - worth a combined £2,200.

"The police attended and they made enquiries," said Mr Rogerson. "A number of witnesses described the appearance of three men - one of whom appeared to be driving a black pick-up vehicle."

It emerged a shed in Egremont had also been broken into, with a stolen tool used in a failed bid to enter a nearby garage containing more expensive cycles.

One man - the driver - had previously been sentenced for his role in the spate of crimes, the court heard.

Blamire and 18-year-old Cameron Rowe admitted three theft charges, burglary and attempted burglary. They appeared together in the dock to be punished.

During questioning by police, Blamire had denied playing any part in the bike thefts, and knowing Rowe and the other male.

"In fact, Mr Blamire's father contacted the police to say he had seen his son in possession of the tandem," said Mr Rogerson, "although it wasn't unusual to see him tinkering with bikes."

Parts of the stolen cycles were dumped in a dustbin.

Rowe - aged 17 at the time of the crimes - had no previous convictions. Andrew Petterson, defending, said the teen had also "made efforts to turn his life around", and been offered full-time work.

Rowe, of Heather Bank, Cleator Moor, had an eight-month custodial sentence suspended for two years. He must complete a youth rehabilitation order and a night-time curfew, and pay the victims compensation.

Blamire, of no fixed address, had 19 offences on his record. He had suffered from deteriorating mental health following Army service, said his barrister, Brendan Burke.

Passing sentence, Judge Barbara Forrester told the thieves: "The two of you certainly had significant roles in part of the activity that went on."