Armed police chased a suspect through gardens and a helicopter hovered overhead as bewildered residents of Meopham watched on.

One woman claims the man ran through her back yard before she was warned by armed officers not to approach him.

A picture shows at least six police vehicles in Wrotham Road, although eye witnesses say there are up to 15 and many are "unmarked".

Another resident has reported seeing a policewoman covered in mud, dog units being deployed and a helicopter circling above.

The man has now been arrested.

A spokesman said: "At around 3.10pm a blue Ford Fiesta is reported to have failed to stop for officers in York Parade, Tonbridge.

"A pursuit was authorised before the car was abandoned in Vigo Road, Vigo around one hour later.

"A search was carried out, which was assisted by a police helicopter, and a man was later arrested on suspicion of driving offences. He remains in custody pending further inquiries.

"Prior to being found, the car is reported to have been in collision with a vehicle in Gravesend Road, Wrotham. No injuries were reported."

It's thought armed officers helped with the search as they were nearby at the time.

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