A "teenage joyrider" led the police on a high-speed chase through several miles of narrow country lanes before finally being stopped at a level crossing.

Police say the driver of the Ford Fiesta failed to stop on the A20 at Westenhanger after 10am yesterday morning.

He sped off across the M20 junction 11 at Stone Street before swerving along single track lanes in Stowting, Brabourne and Brook.

His escapade was brought to a halt at the closed level crossing gate at Wye, where the vehicle was rammed by the police Range Rover.

Cllr Noel Ovenden said his wife witnessed the incident and saw six other police cars converge on the village after 11am to box in the Fiesta.

He said: “My wife was waiting at the Wye level crossing and saw the dramatic end of this incident. The police took no chances and having boxed in the Fiesta they ensured that the driver could not use it to endanger any more road users.

“Fortunately nobody was hurt today, but this car chase highlights a hazard that any of us can face when we use the narrow rural lanes, especially those that connect to the M20. Walkers, cyclists and horse riders are particularly vulnerable.”

There were two passengers in the car who were unhurt. A police spokesman confirmed a 16-year-old boy had been arrested and charged with driving dangerously, without a licence, and failing to stop.

He was released on bail and will answer before Folkestone Youth Court on Tuesday, March 15.