POLICE chased a stolen a car through the streets of Basildon until it smashed into railings close to a busy parade of shops.

Officers tried to flag down and stop a white Toyota Verso as it was travelling on Broadmayne at 12.10pm yesterday.

The car failed to stop, with police launching a high speed pursuit.

Officer followed the Toyota to Whitmore Way, where it crashed into railings outside Fryerns Library.

Two men ran out of the car and fled the scene in a bid to evade capture.

Despite a search of the area by the dog unit, the pair have not yet been found and are still on the run.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "Police pursued a vehicle in Basildon after it failed to stop for officers on Broadmayne at 12.10pm.

"Officers had been alerted that the white Toyota Verso had been stolen from outside a house in Basildon the day before.

"Following a short three minute pursuit the car crashed into railing outside the library on Whitmore Way and two men then ran off.

"A search of the area was carried out but the suspects were not found.

"The car has been recovered for forensic examination. A police vehicle was also damaged during the pursuit.

"Police enquiries are continuing."

Any witnesses or anyone with information can call Essex Police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.