Two arrested in woodland near Chichester after car theft

An Audi A4 was stolen from Hill Lane in South Harting between 12-1.10pm and traced by an officer on the A272 at Tillington near Petworth, police said.

The vehicle travelled on to Downs Road towards Funtington and was involved in a collision with a Honda Jazz on Downs Road near West Stoke before both people in the Audi fled the scene and into nearby woodland, according to police.

Officers were directed through the woodland by several members of the public and two men were arrested, police have confirmed.

The men, a 24-year-old man from Chesham in Buckinghamshire and a 42-year-old of no fixed address were arrested on suspicion of theft, failing to stop for police, dangerous driving, failing to stop at the accident, and the 42-year-old man for driving while disqualified, police added.

Police said both men have been bailed, the 24-year-old man until April 4 and the 42-year-old man until April 20.

Detective Constable Jon Tizzard said: “We are incredibly grateful to these members of the public who were happy to help us.