POLICE are hunting a would-be thief who tried to break into a Johnstone home in the middle of the night.

Footage from a home CCTV system shows a man opening a garden gate and walking towards a garage in Hallhill Drive at around 3.50am on Sunday.

After attempting to open the locked garage door, he walked over to the house and looked through a window.

He then tried to open the front door, only to discover it was also locked, before making off towards a neighbouring house.

The suspect is described as in his 20s and around 5ft 9ins tall. At the time, he was wearing a white hoodie, white trousers, white Nike trainers and a dark-coloured face mask.

Inspector Allan O’Hare, head of community policing for Renfrewshire, said: "On this occasion, the suspect was unsuccessful in gaining entry to the property.

"This highlights the importance of remaining vigilant and ensuring that all doors, windows and vehicles are securely locked at all times.

"Don't give criminals the chance to ruin your Christmas."

Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information is asked to call the police on 101.