Two men and a boy were arrested after a police chase through a town in the early hours of the morning.

Police officers were alerted that a Honda had been stolen and was driving along the A127 just before 11.50pm on Tuesday night.

The driver failed to stop for police officers after they tried to pull it over and a pursuit was authorised.

As a result, the stolen car began to drive off at speed and broke several speed limits in surrounding roads through south Essex.

The driver and two passengers then abandoned the car in Hadleigh Park Road, Hadleigh, and officers conducted a search the area with the help of the dog unit.

One eye-witness, who has asked to remain anonymous, said: “I saw the police and dogs searching the area.

“I didn’t want to leave my house because I had no idea who or what they were looking for and I thought it could have been dangerous.

“I’m glad whoever they were looking for has been caught. It doesn’t surprise me that the car was stolen from London.

“We seem to be getting more and more crime from the capital spilling out into this part of Essex these days.

“The Metropolitan police have a lot to answer for because clearly it is too easy for criminals to move in and around this part of the country.”

The suspects were eventually apprehended and arrested on suspicion of a string of offences.

The boy, from Kentish Town, London, was arrested on suspicion of burglary, taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent and possession of drugs.

The 18 and 21-year-old men, from Upper Holloway, London, were both arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle and failing to stop when directed by a police officer.

The Metropolitan Police have been made aware that the car, which was stolen from London, has been recovered.

All three suspects were released under investigation.

Anyone with information should contact Essex Police on 101.

Alternatively, you can contact independent crimefighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information