A SUSPECTED drink driver was chased by police after crashing into another car at a drive through restaurant this morning.

Police attended McDonald's at Thinford Roundabout, near Spennymoor, at 12.20am following reports that the driver of a silver Volkswagen estate car appeared to be under the influence of alcohol.

When the officers arrived, the driver reversed the vehicle through the restaurant car park and collided with a Ford Fiesta, driven by a 22-year-old man from the Durham area, causing minor damage.

The Volkswagen, which contained two men, set off at speed through the West Cornforth and Metal Bridge area.

After a short police pursuit, the suspect vehicle was abandoned and the two occupants absconded on foot.

No-one was hurt during the incident and police inquiries are continuing.

It is understood a police helicopter was also involved in the search.