TWO policemen who pursued some of Britain's most wanted men in an 80mph car chase through Bolton - and later caught the fugitives - have been commended for their heroics.

PCs Daniel Kabal and Chris Kitson helped bring Lee Seddon and Phillip Fisher to justice after other members of their armed robbery mob had been apprehended.

The officers were conducting investigations at the home of an associate of Seddon in Lancashire on February 10 2014 when they spotted two men loitering in a silver Vauxhall Astra van outside the property and realised it was Fisher and ringleader Seddon.

The Bolton News:

They ended up chasing the van through Over Hulton, Bromley Cross and Bradshaw, utilising five police cars and the force helicopter.

Seddon even attempted to ram two police cars with his van before abandoning the van in Fountains Avenue, Tonge Moor, but was caught and arrested in nearby Folds Road.

Fisher fled from the car was eventually found hiding under a bed at a house in Bolton and arrested.

PC Kabal said: "Lee Seddon and Phillip Fisher struck fear into innocent members of the public during their violent and prolific crime spree. 

"Once we became aware of Seddon and Fisher and the violent offences they were committing, we were determined not to give up the hunt for them until they were behind bars. 

"This is an excellent example of teamwork between GMP and Lancashire constabulary and sends a clear message to those who prey on the vulnerable to commit organised and violent crime in our communities."

Seddon and Fisher were part of a criminal outfit that carried out armed robberies on vans delivering cash in order to replenish ATMs.

They struck in Cleveleys in Lancashire, Stoke-on-Trent in Staffordshire and Middlesbrough on Teeside and made off with almost £300,000.

One heist they pulled off in Preston - when two security guards were robbed by three men - was highlighted on BBC1's Crimewatch programme and a £25,000 rewarded offered for information leading to Seddon's conviction.

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: "PC Kitson and PC Kabal showed tremendous dedication and professionalism in their relentless pursuit of Seddon and Fisher. 

"Their tenacity meant the two offenders were captured, ensuring the public were kept safe from these criminals.

"Both officers went beyond what is expected in pursuit of two dangerous and prolific criminals. They demonstrated exemplary tenacity and leadership and worked long hours. 

"I am proud to award them with a Chief Constable's commendation."

Seddon, of Snow Hill Road, Darcy Lever, was jailed for 13 years and two months at Preston Crown Court in February 2015 after admitting two counts of conspiracy to rob and one of dangerous driving.

Phillip Fisher, of Clarendon Gardens, Bromley Cross, received a 12 year prison sentence at the same time after admitting two counts of conspiracy to rob.