A man has been arrested on suspicion of kidnap, theft, and dangerous driving after police chased a stolen car with an 89-year-old woman still inside near Ashton Market yesterday.

Police received reports of the stolen vehicle at around 1pm on Saturday, January 6.

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A woman had left her car but kept the engine on to keep it warm for her mother, who was sat in the passenger seat, according to police.

A man then allegedly got into the vehicle and drove it away – with the woman still sitting in the passenger seat.

Following the report, police officers followed the vehicle, with more officers from Greater Manchester Police’s Road Policing Unit joining to pursue the car and bring it to a stop.

According to GMP, there was no damage to the suspected stolen vehicle and no injuries to the woman in the passenger seat, who was safely reunited with her daughter shortly afterwards.

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The suspected driver, a 50-year-old man, remains in police custody.

Chief Inspector Matt Jackson of GMP’s Specialist Operation Branch said: “This shows great work by the team in what could have been a really dangerous incident which was managed well by the officers to ensure the vehicle was brought to a stop safely.

“I am pleased to hear that the elderly woman was safely reunited with her daughter, it must have been really terrifying for her to have been the passenger whilst the car was driven off by a stranger.

“Our officers worked hard to follow the vehicle before engaging in a pursuit to safely bring the vehicle to a stop and make the arrest.

“From identifying the stolen vehicle to arresting the suspects, our officers are highly skilled and dedicated individuals, and this arrest goes to show how much work goes into these operations across the force.

“GMP will not tolerate this reckless behaviour and I hope yesterday's actions demonstrate that we will use all resources available to catch suspects and make sure our streets are safe.”

According to the force, anyone with information or concerns about crime in their area can report to GMP through 101 or through the LiveChat facility on its website.

Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

If you have a story, I cover the whole borough of Oldham. Please get in touch at jack.fifield@newsquest.co.uk or click to send me a message on WhatsApp or on Signal on 07517566383.