Teen drove double the speed limit during police chase

Officers from Durham’s Roads and Armed Policing unit began pursuing a Ford Fiesta through Great Burdon just before 3pm yesterday (April 1).

Police say the teenager reached speeds of 80mph in a 40mph zone while swerving into oncoming traffic and putting other road users at risk. A 14-year-old passenger was also in the vehicle at the time.

Police dash cam from the Great Burdon police chase (Image: DURHAM CONSTABULARY)

The pursuit came to an end after the driver “popped a tyre” due to his manner of driving.

Both boys then attempted to flee the scene on foot but were quickly chased down and arrested by officers.

The 17-year-old driver has since been charged with dangerous driving, having no licence and having no insurance.

The passenger was charged with aggravated vehicle taking and will appear before court in the coming days.

No more than a few hours later, officers were involved in a second pursuit after a black Toyota Hilux, believed to have been stolen from the Northumbria area, was spotted in Eldon.

The vehicle was pursued at speed through Kirk Merrington before officers used a stinger device in Chilton.

Police dash cam from the Chilton police chase (Image: DURHAM CONSTABULARY)

Police say the driver attempted to ram police cars before abandoning the vehicle and fleeing into a nearby field, where he was caught by police dog Dutch.

The 21-year-old driver was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, disqualified driving, having no insurance, theft of a motor vehicle and resisting arrest. He remains in custody.

His passenger was arrested on suspicion of possessing drugs and theft of a motor vehicle.

Police said the incidents highlight the type of risks officers deal with daily while working to keep the public safe.

A spokesperson said: “These incidents are just a few examples of what our officers deal with every day to keep the public safe.

“We won’t tolerate dangerous driving and will continue to take those who put others at risk, off our roads.”