A 24-year-old man and two 16-year-old boys were arrested in Ely on Thursday after police chased a van through busy streets.

Officers attempted to flag the van down at about 4.30pm but, when the vehicle failed to stop, a short chase ensued, with the three occupants dumping the van in Longchamp Drive and fleeing.

Officers managed to catch the trio however, and they were promptly arrested.

24-year-old Frankie Parker, of West View, Cambridge was charged with making off without payment, burglary, driving without insurance and aggravated vehicle taking.

One 16-year-old from Ely was charged with theft of a motor vehicle, with a second 16-year-old boy from Ely charged with making off without payment, burglary, aggravated vehicle taking and dangerous driving.

All three were held at Parkside Police Station in Cambridge and will appear at Cambridge Magistrates’ Court.