Man arrested after incident

A man has been arrested on suspicion of aggravated vehicle taking and driving a motor vehicle dangerously after a police officer attempted to stop him whilst travelling from Rochdale to Whitworth.

Rossendale Police state that at 1am this morning (Wednesday 14 October), a proactive police officer attempted to stop a vehicle travelling from Rochdale to Whitworth.

The vehicle failed to stop for the officer and accelerated away and out of sight. The officer then found the vehicle crashed into two stationary vehicles having lost control. The male driver was seen running from the scene.

The NPAS helicopter, on duty dog handler and Road Policing Unit were alerted to the incident and commenced a search for the driver. The helicopter later discovered a male lying in undergrowth near Oak Street and directed officers to his location. He was then arrested and currently remains in custody on suspicion of aggravated vehicle taking and driving a motor vehicle dangerously.

Rossendale Police said: “This is a great result which highlights the importance of the Dog Unit, Road Policing Unit and the Police Helicopter. Unfortunately, the Dog Unit and the Road Policing Unit will be disbanded should we face the cuts that are likely to be expected of us.”