A MAN has been arrested after being chased by police for almost ten miles along Hampshire streets.

Four police vehicles and a helicopter were involved in the high-speed pursuit around Hedge End, West End, Midanbury, Bitterne Park and Townhill Park.

The drama began when a Renault Megane driver failed to stop when he was asked to by officers in Tollbar Way, Hedge End, just after 9pm on Monday.

The officers followed the suspect and were joined by another three police vehicles and the National Police Service helicopter.

Daily Echo readers reported seeing police cars speeding through Swaythling Road in West End, and Mansbridge Lane and Avon Road in Bitterne Park as they chased the vehicle for more than 20 minutes.

Officers eventually managed to surround the car on Woodmill Lane in Townhill Park, boxing it in with their vehicles.

The Megane crashed into one of the police cars before the driver was arrested at 9.30pm.

Last night he was being held on suspicion of failing to stop, dangerous driving, driving while disqualified and possession of a class A drug with intent to supply.

A police spokesman said: “At 9.08pm, April 6, a Renault Megane continued driving after being required to stop for a police officer on Tollbar Way in Hedge End.

“A pursuit ensued through Hedge End and continued through West End and into the areas of Midanbury, Bitterne Park and Townhill Park.

“The pursuit involved up to four police units with assistance from the air support unit.

“There was contact between the Megane and a police vehicle as the pursuit was drawn to a close.”

Nobody was injured in the pursuit.