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Police investigating a vicar's complaint that his home had been sold to a new owner without his consent have arrested a man, it emerged today.

The Rev Mike Hall had returned to his £131,000 terraced property in Luton, Bedfordshire, on August 20 after learning that someone was inside his home and had turned the lights on.

But when he arrived, he found that builders were stripping the fittings and was informed by a 'new owner' that his name was no longer on the deeds to the property.

He then made complaints to the police, who began investigating whether a criminal act had been committed.

Today Hertfordshire Police confirmed that they had arrested a man at his home address on suspicion of fraud by false representation.

Reverend Mike hall, who had been working in North Wales, drove down to his property in Luton on the morning of August 21 to find a builder completing works inside his home

Detective Inspector James Day said: 'I can only imagine the anxiety and stress the victim has had to endure in this unusual and sophisticated case.

'My team of specialist officers is determined to get justice for him, as well as other victims of heartless fraudsters here in Bedfordshire.

'Our new team marks a step-change in how we respond to fraud cases in the county and we are determined to bring any offenders to justice.'

The police said that the suspect currently remains in police custody for questioning.

The Rev Hall's home was sold in July for £131,00 and the new owner's name has been recorded on the Land Registry making him the legal owner.

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