A STOLEN car was chased through town centre roads by police before the driver jumped out and ran off.
Officers spotted the silver Vauxhall Corsa, which was reported stolen in Hartlepool on Thursday, and gave chase in Clarence Road.
Despite flashing lights, the driver of the car did not stop and made his way to Mainsforth Terrace before turning into Burbank Street, pulling over and running away.
The police helicopter was launched after the driver got away at around 5.30pm on Saturday.
Police arrested a 22-year-old man later in the evening who was released without charge.
Any witnesses of the pursuit or anyone with any information is asked to call Cleveland Police on the non-emergency 101 number or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.