A TEENAGER was left with serious injuries after being knocked down by a car being followed by a police helicopter.

Officers followed the Fiat Punto after it failed to stop for a police car about 11pm on Friday.

As the car drove through Stockton, a police support helicopter was called in.

But the car collided with a lamppost and a pedestrian in Bishopton Road and its junction with Gray's Road, Stockton.

The pedestrian, a 17-year-old, sustained a broken leg, head and internal injuries. He was taken to hospital where his condition is stable.

Three occupants of the Punto were cut free by firefighters.

The driver, a 21-year-old man, was arrested.

Witnesses to the accident are asked to call PC Gary Hall on (01642) 301552.