Police were forced to use a stinger after two people allegedly stole a supermarket delivery van.

Officers followed the vehicle through Gillingham and Chatham at around 11am on Wednesday.

A police spokesman said: “Kent Police was called following a report that a delivery van had been stolen in Hazlemere Drive, Gillingham.

“Patrols in the area were alerted and the vehicle was seen in Chatham around 20 minutes later.

“It failed to pull over for officers and was pursued before being stopped following the use of a stinger.

“Two occupants abandoned the vehicle and ran off, resulting in a search of the Rochester High Street area by attending officers.”

Multiple witnesses have said the vehicle was a delivery van belonging to Asda.

One said: “An Asda van had been stolen from Chatham.”

While another added: “As I drove off down Star Hill, police had blocked the end of [Rochester] High Street.

“Then more police up the little road next to the Post Office and Weatherspoons.”

Two men were arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle and have been bailed while inquiries into the incident continue.