A PEDESTRIAN was knocked down on a pavement by a stolen car.

Police said that the Mitsubishi Colt failed to stop after the crash in Whalley New Road, Larkhill, Blackburn, at 4pm today.

Minutes later police spotted the vehicle and launched a pursuit with the aid of the force helicopter.

By 4.20pm the pursuit, which police said was not carried out at high speeds, was complete.

A 17-year-old boy was arrested on the suspicion of dangerous driving and assault and was today due to be questioned by police.

The 59-year-old Blackburn man who was knocked down was taken to the Royal Preston Hospital with what were feared to be serious head injuries.

But he was discharged from hospital by 7.30pm following treatment for a head injury.

Police said the Mitsubishi had been stolen from Ainsworth Street, Blackburn town centre, on Friday afternoon.

The crash happened close to Peugeot garage. The stretch of Whalley New Road was closed for two hours until 7.30pm while officers investigated the scene.

Detective Inspector Jill Johnston, of Blackburn CID, said: "There was a collision involving a stolen motor vehicle.

"It mounted the pavement and collided with a white male in his 50s.

"The vehicle failed to stop and made off.

"A short time later police officers spotted a vehicle and a helicopter was called to assist.

"A local man has been arrested and is due to be questioned. ".