A HUNT is under way for the occupants of a car which smashed into the back of a bin lorry while being pursued by police.

They ran from the scene of the crash in Patrington Close, Crawley, shortly after noon with officers on foot in hot pursuit.

"About 50 wraps of substances suspected to be Class A drugs were discarded during the foot chase," a Sussex Police spokeswoman said.

Chris Elliott, who lives nearby, said the police helicopter and a dog unit had been called in to track down the occupants of the car.

He said: "I didn't actually see anything until I heard the sirens getting closer than normal.

"When I did look, I saw a VW polo or golf up the rear end of the bin lorry and an officer running further up the road - chasing the suspects I presume.

The Argus: The scene following the crash in Crawley Credit: Chris ElliottThe scene following the crash in Crawley Credit: Chris Elliott

"A second officer was directing the helicopter to the location. We've also had a k9 unit deployed for about 15 mins, but that then left."

Police first became aware of the car when officers spotted "suspicious" behavour in Jewel Walk, Crawley, at noon.

A force spokeswoman said: "The vehicle failed to stop for police and shortly thereafter collided with a nearby bin lorry in Patrington Close.

"The occupants made off on foot and enquiries are ongoing to locate them.

"About 50 wraps of substances suspected to be Class A drugs were discarded during the foot chase.

"A minor injury to one of the dustcart crew has been reported."

Police say the incident is ongoing and no further information is available at this time.