A TEENAGER jumped into the River Ribble as police tried to arrest a group of youths suspected of stealing a car.

Four youngsters in a red Vauxhall Corsa were seen driving into Samlesbury yesterday.

A farmer later called police after he claimed he spotted youths trying to break into his Ford Transit van in the Bezza Lane area.

He blocked their path in his tractor and called the police.

The farmer detained a youth, while a relative grabbed another. Two other youths left the scene before another youth was detained by police.

Police said a teenager jumped into the River Ribble -- described as fast-flowing and swollen due to recent heavy rain -- and police called fire crews for back-up, fearing they would be dealing with a water rescue.

Inspector Steve Haworth, of Blackburn Police, said: "It was a very foolish thing for this young man to do, but he managed to pull himself out at the other side after being swept along.

"He was soaking wet, and had lost his shoes, but was detained by officers soon afterwards."

Four teenagers were taken to Preston Police Station for questioning.

One of the teenagers was 15, two were16 and one was 18.

A spokesman for Blackburn Fire Station said: "We were called to Samlesbury about 2pm after being told we may be needed for a water rescue.

"That wasn't the case, however, because the teenager had already got out of the water.

"We would, however, urge people not to jump into the river."