THE police helicopter was involved in a lengthy search of the Yate and Chipping Sodbury area last night.

The helicopter was called out after a moped which was being ridden without any lights failed to stop for officers at about 11pm in North Road, Yate.

The moped made off along footpaths, pavements and grassed areas as well as the roads around Yate and Chipping Sodbury.

It was finally stopped at about midnight in Merlin Way, Yate.

* A 17-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of theft of a moped, dangerous driving, failing to stop for police and assaulting a constable. He remains in custody.