A man was arrested after allegedly trying to speed off from police who then say they found a “hammer” in his car.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) tactical vehicle intercept unit officers were on patrol in the Prestwich area at around 2.15am this morning, Friday, February 16, when they came across a Kia Sportage on Bury New Road.

Police said the driver, a man in his 50s, failed to stop but eventually abandoned the car and tried to get away from police on foot before he was eventually stopped and arrested.

Inspector Danny Kabal of Greater Manchester Police's Specialist Operations Unit, said: “This result showcases to the public that officers from the Tactical Vehicle Intercept Unit are patrolling the streets of Greater Manchester day and night to protect our communities and keep people safe.

“When the unit are not engaged with planned deployments or responding to serious criminality, officers from TVIU will proactively seek those responsible for causing harm within our communities.

“This is a great example of how the unit are able to utilise their specialist training to pursue criminals and bring them into custody.

Bury Times: The car hit a street sign during the chaseThe car hit a street sign during the chase (Image: GMP)

“The public would rightly expect us to lock-up anyone who thinks it is acceptable to carry a weapon or drive dangerously in a bid to escape, and this is exactly what we will continue to do.”

The man was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, having no insurance and failing to stop for police.

Upon searching the car, officers say they found a hammer and the man was further arrested on suspicion of possession on an offensive weapon.

The man remains in custody for questioning.