Two men have been arrested after a motorway chase which saw a number of police cars rammed, causing one to spin and hit a barrier, officers have said.

The pursuit started after the van, which is believed to have been stolen, failed to stop on the M1 in Nottinghamshire in the early hours, police said.

The force said it was initially spotted at junction 21 around 2.20am on Thursday and as it headed northwards, police teams from three forces – Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire, worked together to try and halt the fleeing vehicle.

As an attempt was made to box in the van, officers said it rammed a number of police cars out of the way.

The force said a repeat of the manoeuvre saw a Nottinghamshire police vehicle struck, causing it to spin and crash into a barrier, causing severe damage. Another Nottinghamshire car was damaged after a wheel came off and hit it.

Police said two officers were taken to hospital for treatment with minor injuries during the incident and are said to be recovering.

As the van approached junction 37, near Barnsley in South Yorkshire, it hit a stinger device and was finally brought to a stop on the hard shoulder.

A 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and failing to stop and an 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle.

Detective Sergeant Matt Dumbrell, from Nottinghamshire Police, said: “These reported actions show a complete lack of regard for anyone else on the road and, as officers, our number one priority is the safety of the public.

“That’s why we were quick to assist as the pursuit came through Nottinghamshire and take the lead when it was appropriate.

“It is absolutely shocking to hear that, instead of stopping as directed, the van driver reportedly rammed police cars out of the way and in turn put officers, themselves and others in danger.

“Two officers were left injured and with a severely damaged car.

“Thankfully they are now recovering and no-one else suffered any significant injuries.”

He added: “It was fantastic teamwork by officers to stop the van and this just goes to serve as a warning to anyone who may think of trying to outrun us – officers are highly trained and skilled and are provided with great equipment, so it won’t be long before we catch up with you.

“We have arrested two men in connection with the incident and our enquiries continue.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any further information is asked to call Nottinghamshire Police, quoting crime reference 21000700659 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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