A suspected thief was found hiding under a horsebox after being chased by police.

Officers believe he stole a catalytic convertor and the car he was driving during the chase.

Police trailed him across north Sussex at 2.10am this morning.

It failed to stop when requested and was followed at varying speeds until it was abandoned in Farm Lane, Balcombe.

The catalytic converter was taken from a parked van in Cape Copse, in Rudgwick, near Horsham.

The owner saw a vehicle leave the scene before patrolling officers gave chase a few minutes later.

The 23-year old driver ran off when the car was abandoned but after a search was found hiding under a horse box at an adjacent farm.

He was arrested on suspicion of theft of the convertor, theft of the car he was driving, dangerous driving, and failing to stop for police.

There was nobody else in the car and no one was injured.

The man is currently in custody for interview and further enquiries.