A 17-TONNE tractor unit hurtled through the streets of Leigh, Atherton and Bolton for 16 miles, pursued by police cars and the GMP Force helicopter.

The six-wheel articulated vehicle careered through the grounds of The Royal Bolton Hospital and several red lights, and needed THREE spiked 'Stinger' traps to finally halt it.

The pursuit began shortly after 11pm on Saturday night when an officer on foot patrol in Leigh town centre spotted the Scania 144L tractor unit being driven erratically. The driver refused to stop and police cars then pursued him through Atherton towards Over Hulton.

Bolton and Salford traffic officers joined the chase, together with the air support unit.

The tractor unit was then driven through the grounds of the Royal Bolton Hospital and headed towards the town centre, before travelling along St Helens Road towards Over Hulton.

Ignoring red traffic lights and road signs, the vehicle reached speeds of 60 mph as it sped towards Atherton.

Police placed two "Stinger" sets at the junction of St Helens Road with Salford Road, but the tractor unit continued.

A third 'Stinger' trap was set and once again, driven over.

The vehicle was eventually brought to a stop in Atherton, both its front tyres completely flat. The driver ran off.

A 25 years-old man from Leigh, has been charged with driving offences, including drink driving. He has been bailed to appear at Leigh Magistrates' Court on August 10.

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