Motorcycle Section were working with Darlington Neighbourhood team yesterday as part of Operation Endurance, when officers sighted a suspected stolen motorcycle.

The rider failed to stop and was pursued across Darlington, both on and off-road.

Stinger was successfully deployed on the motorcycle which deflated both tyres.

Despite this, the rider continued to drive dangerously and eventually went off-road into a nature reserve, where he went to ground in woodland beside a river.

A short while later, officers detained the rider, who had emerged from the river soaking wet and freezing cold. The motorcycle was found submerged in the river and was recovered.

After receiving treatment for suspected hypothermia, the rider was arrested for numerous offences including theft of a motor vehicle, dangerous driving and failing to stop.

Another member of the balaclava bike club off the streets.