A SUSPECTED car thief almost ran over two officers during a police chase this afternoon.

Armed police officers were involved in the chase, which started in Burnley at around 1pm, but their weapons were not drawn.

A man and a woman were arrested in connection with the incident and remained in custody this evening.

Police had initially been called to Martin Street, Burnley, at around 12.25pm to reports a silver Volkswagen Polo had been stolen.

Officers managed to track the car to Wynotham Street, Burnley, where it is said to have crashed, causing damage to the rear side lights.

A police spokesman said it was at that point the driver of the car reversed towards two police offices, narrowly missing them. Neither officer was injured.

At that point response officers called for backup and armed officers joined the pursuit.

The car was eventually abandoned in Darwen Street, Padiham, at around 1.15pm.

A man and a woman were found by officers close to the vehicle and arrested.

A 26-year-old man from Burnley has been arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle and dangerous driving.

A 29-year-old woman from Burnley has been arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle.

A police spokesman said: "A vehicle had been stolen in Burnley however when seen by officers, the driver decided to not stop when requested and attempted to drive towards the two officers nearly missing them before crashing and driving off.

"Immediate response officers working with our armed response team did not give up and finally located both driver and passenger who have been arrested for several offences. The vehicle also found nearby."