The drama unfolded on Tuesday afternoon in Waterloo Road, Pudsey.
Police have revealed that the male occupant of the house discovered a car in his driveway - with the boot lid open ready for stolen property to be loaded into it.

However, the return of the owners prompted one of the burglars to drive off while his accomplice ran to catch up with him.

Det Insp Fran Naughton, of North West Leeds CID, said that the male home owner chased the man on foot but was unable to catch him before he dived into a car, driven by his accomplice.

They then drove off.

Det Insp Naughton said that the burglar who was surprised by the couple's return dropped various items they were clearly intent on stealing, including a television and jewellery before making a run for it.

She added that, fortunately, nothing was stolen from the detached house.
Police have appealed for witnesses or anyone recognising the burglars' red car whose registration number included "YA 56". The car was last seen heading towards Pudsey.

The burglar chased by the householder is described as black, aged about 25 and 5ft 8/9in tall. He was wearing a woolly hat and dark clothing.
The second burglar is white, in his mid to late twenties with short, mousy hair. he was wearing a black and white striped top and light jeans.

* Anyone with information should ring police on 0845 6060606 asking for North West Leeds CID.