An alleged hit-and-run driver who smashed into several cars while being pursued by police has been arrested.

The suspect crashed a silver BMW 318 saloon into two parked cars in Cheriton on Sunday, leaving a 22-year-old woman trapped in her Mini.

She had to be cut free from the wreckage by firefighters, and was taken to hospital with soft tissue damage.

The crash happened after police saw the BMW being "driven erratically" in Cheriton High Street at 1.15pm and tried to pull the driver over.

But he allegedly failed to stop and fled at speed.

Officers followed him along Cheriton High Street and turned into Risborough Lane and then into Church Road where the BMW ploughed into two cars, damaging the wing mirror of one and causing extensive damage to the other.

The BMW is then said to have sped off along Church Road without stopping and managed to get away from police.

The car was later found abandoned in Spring Lane, Hythe, and a 29-year-old man from Folkestone has since been arrested and released on bail.

Police are now appealing for witnesses.

Sergeant Glyn Walkersaid: "We'd like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed this incident; either the pursuit through Cheriton, or the collision at the junction of Risborough Lane and Church Hill.

"It is thought that a pedestrian was crossing the road as the BMW travelled along the High Street, and we would particularly like to speak to that person."

The serious collision investigation unit can be contacted on 01622 798538, or via email at sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk.