A curious passerby climbed inside a police car and posed for a picture after officers were forced to leave it unlocked.

The patrol vehicle had been parked in Iron Bar Lane, Canterbury, while police were running after a 24-year-old assault suspect.

Witness Phil Martin says the handcuffed man escaped as three officers were walking him to their car, resulting in a chase through the city centre.

Unfortunately, a door was left ajar, allowing members of the public full access inside for about 20 minutes, until the man was re-apprehended at 12.45pm yesterday.

"All the people passing by were amazed that the vehicle was left unattended for so long," Mr Martin said.

An officer also accidentally collided with an elderly lady during the chase, knocking her over.

A police spokesman said that student officers had been helping with the arrest, and that a sergeant then remained with the lady until she was ready to leave.

Chief Inspector Mark Weller said: "Kent Police officers were responding to a report of an assault when they parked their car in Iron Bar Lane, Canterbury on Tuesday 23 October 2018.

"Our officers took urgent action in the best interests of the public and whilst not common practice to leave a police vehicle unlocked, on this occasion, despite trying to lock the car, one door remained ajar. This was reported on the police radio and cameras were positioned to monitor the car whilst it was left unattended.

"It is important to note that no equipment or confidential information was left inside the car and we would hope that residents of Canterbury understand it was our priority to apprehend the suspect to prevent any further offending."

The man was also arrested on suspicion of escaping from lawful custody.

He remains in police custody.