It joined in a search after a man, who police say was believed to have been the subject of an arrest warrant issued four months ago, was seen by officers on Wooler Road, Hartlepool, around 8pm.

After a search of the area which included three police vehicles, four police officers and six community support officers, a local man, in his twenties, was found near an electricity substation between Wooler Road and Park Avenue.

He was then led out around 10 minutes later through the garden of a family living in Hollymount, just off The Parade.

The 20-year-old daughter of the family, who did not wish to be named, said: "We could see the helicopter, just above the treetops. We didn't know what was going on.

"We were shocked when we heard a man was in our garden. I couldn't believe what was going on. I'm just relieved it's all over."

The woman's 21-year-old boyfriend, who was with her when last night's drama unfolded, added: "We helped to open the gate for the police bringing him through.

"The police were very apologetic for what had gone on."

A 65-year-old man who also lives nearby, said: "There was an awful lot of disturbance. My neighbour said she saw several police cars in the Hollymount grounds and shortly after that all hell broke loose. The helicopter was extremely low."

Acting Inspector Mark Haworth, of Cleveland Police, said: "If anyone is wanted on warrant they should contact their solicitors or hand themselves into the police station. They will be arrested or could face imprisonment. Criminals will be brought to justice."

A man was expected to be appearing at Hartlepool Magistrates Court today in connection with the incident.