TRAINS were brought to a halt after police chased a man suspected of stealing a truck and trailer down a railway line.

The incident started in the Salthill Industrial Estate, Clitheroe.

Trains were brought to a standstill as police chased one of the men down the railway line at Horrocksford Junction in the north of the town.

The police helicopter was scrambled after another man, believed to be an accomplice, left the industrial estate at high speed in a green Citroen Xantia car.

PS Ian Kirk of Clitheroe police said the men entered a secure compound on the industrial estate and tampered with the truck's ignition.

They fled the scene after being disturbed by the owner of the vehicle.

One man ran away and narrowly escaped capture after being chased down a section of railway line at Horrocksford Junction, while the other sped away in the car.

Police officers searched the area for two hours and the Lancashire Constabulary helicopter was mobilised for an hour to try to pinpoint the car.

PS Kirk added: "Trains were briefly halted until the man and the officer chasing him left the line.

"Unfortunately, we were unable to apprehend the two men or the vehicle, but our inquiries are continuing."

The driver of the car is said to be in his 20s, white and of stocky build. The man who made his getaway on foot is also in his 20s, about 5ft 9in, with short, fair hair and a Liverpool accent."

Anyone with information should contact Clitheroe police in confidence on 01200 443344.