Why a police helicopter was circulating over the Dursley area

Police were called after reports that a suspected drink-driver had been spotted leaving an address in the area around midnight.

When officers attended, the driver collided with their vehicle causing minor damage before  driving off, according to a Gloucestershire police spokesperson.

Searches were then conducted with the National Police Air Service with the car eventually located in Manor Avenue, Cam with a dog inside, which has now been taken to kennels. 

Police are still hunting for the suspect along with other occupants believed to have been in the vehicle.

Police say they found the suspect's car abandoned in Manor Avenue in Cam (Image: Gloucestershire Policee)

A spokesperson from Gloucestershire Police said: “We were called to Dursley at around 12.10am this morning (Wednesday) following a report that a suspected drunk driver had been seen leaving an address.

“Officers attended the area and the occupant of the car drove into a police car causing minor damage.

“The driver failed to stop and fled from officers. Searches were conducted along with colleagues from the National Police Air Service and the car was later found.

“The occupants ran away from the vehicle and enquiries are now ongoing to identify and locate them.

“The car has been seized as part of enquiries and a dog which was found inside the vehicle is now in the care of a kennel.”

"Sorry if we woke you with our helicopter"

A spokesperson for Glos Police Specialist Ops said in a statement on X: “OT61 had a small pursuit tonight in Dursley. 

“Sorry if we woke you with our helicopter. I’m sorry to say they got away, but we seized your car and please do get in touch if you want your dog back. 

“You’ve scared her but we’ll look after her. All the best, D shift RPU Glos Police Specialist Ops.”