TWO Tilbury men have been arrested following a car pursuit involving Essex Police's helicopter.

Officers arrested the men on suspicion of a number of offences after the chase on the A130 near Chelmsford last night (Monday 1 June).

A silver Lexus, which police believed to have been involved in theft of fuel from a HGV at the side of the road, was spotted just before 10.50pm.

Officers pursued the vehicle, which was later abandoned near the A127 after releasing fuel over the road.

The southbound carriageway of the A130 between Howe Green and Rettendon was closed for a short time while highways teams cleared the spillage.

The police helicopter assisted with the initial search, but an officer and dog from the Essex force dog section on the ground located two men hiding in the undergrowth just before 11.45pm.

A 34-year-old man from Tilbury was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, theft of a motor vehicle, theft and drug driving.

A 36-year-old man, also from Tilbury, was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, theft of a motor vehicle, failing to stop when directed and theft.

Both remain in custody for questioning.