A DRIVER who fled from firearms officers was found "very muddy, very wet and very cold" hiding in a ditch.

Police tried to pull over a black Land Rover last night in the Birstall area, but it failed to stop.

A chase ensued and shortly after the driver abandoned his vehicle and fled into the woods.

The Land Rover was left in the middle of the road and its back-left wheel was completely buckled.

A police response team and the Batley and Spen Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) contained the area to allow the police dog unit to conduct an extensive search of the woods.

It took almost an hour to find the driver.

He was discovered hiding in a beck and a police spokesperson said he was "very muddy, very wet and very, very cold".

The man was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and for having no insurance.