POLICE launched a large-scale manhunt for a shirtless man seen running through the streets of Christchurch.

Up to 10 police cars and the police helicopter were seen circling around the Somerford and Mudeford areas for nearly two hours.

Police initially repeatedly told the Echo they were looking for someone in connection with the theft of a pedal cycle.

They later, once the search was over, revealed he was also wanted for a second offence - on suspicion of perverting the course of justice. But they would give no further details or comment on reports armed officers were involved. 

The suspect is still on the loose after apparently "escaping" through a hole in the fence on Airfield Way Industrial Estate.

The force spokesperson said a man was wanted for theft of a bike and on suspicion of perverting the course of justice. The spokesperson refused to confirm how many officers were involved.

 The manager of the Kwik Fit garage on Airfield Way, Ben Bishop, said he saw the man evade police capture after escaping through a hole in a hedge. 

“A blue car pulled up and a man got out without a shirt on,” he added. “Then he ran behind a lorry across the road and it looks like he's somehow managed to get through a tiny hole in the hedge.

"Ten seconds later the police turned up - about five or six officers - and started chasing after him."
He described the man as white, around 5ft 8ins and bald headed.