The police helicopter was deployed during a five hour search for a suspect who attempted to escape arrest last night.

Tenterden residents reported hearing the helicopter circling the area for several hours.

One eyewitness said that several ground units including a van and dog unit were also in the area.

A police spokesperson said that a 22-year-old man ran from police while being arrested in Bridlewell Lane.

He was first arrested at 9.43pm, before fleeing and triggering the search.

He was eventually located at around 3am, and has been arrested on suspicion of common assault and attempting to escape from custody.

He currently remains in custody.

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