Police in Edinburgh are hunting a thief who was forced to dump his haul of stolen goods after being caught in the act by a member of the public.

The suspect broke into a number of cars in the New Town area of the city overnight between Friday and Saturday (February 13-14), stealing approximately £1000 worth of goods, including satellite navigation systems, car radios, iPODs, and other electrical equipment.

The suspect smashed the windows on around eight to ten cars parked in and around Great King Street, Albany Street and Dundonald Street.

A member of the public spotted the suspect smashing a car window in Albany Street at around 7.30am on Saturday. The witness gave chase, and the thief dropped a rucksack containing the stolen goods before making his escape.

The suspect is described as white, mid-to-late 20s, 5ft 7ins to 5ft 8ins tall, unshaven, with dark unkempt hair. He was wearing a navy fleece jacket, and carrying a dark rucksack.

He may also have been wearing a woollen hat while carrying out some of the thefts.

A police spokesman said: 'While the stolen items were recovered, the suspect has caused approximately £1000 worth of damage as a result of smashing the windows of these vehicles.

'We want anyone who was in the New Town area overnight between Friday and Saturday, and noticed anyone acting suspiciously there, to contact police immediately.

'Similarly, anyone who recognises the description of the suspect should also get in touch.

'At this time we would like to advise people not to store valuable electrical items in their vehicles, and if they do, to keep them out of sight.'

Anyone with any information should contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or Crimestoppers in confidence and complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.

Source: Lothian and Borders Police