A motorcyclist led police on a high-speed chase through the streets of Southampton before crashing over an embankment and trying to flee from police by jumping down a cliff.

Zikai Ivan Cann was detained by officers close to the old Sonesta Beach Hotel property after he injured his foot while trying to evade capture.

Appearing in Magistrates’ Court on crutches today, Cann admitted dangerous driving and driving with no insurance.

The 26-year-old, who was wearing a ballistic vest when he was arrested, reached speeds of 110kph during the chase that took place in the early hours of February 20, this year.

Cann, of Sandys, was initially spotted by police speeding along Middle Road, close to Evans Bay, at just before 1am.

Officers gave chase as he headed east passed the Waterlot Inn restaurant and on to Camp Hill Road in Warwick from where he cut up towards the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse before losing control of his bike turning out of the Henry VIII restaurant car park.

Prosecutor Cindy Clarke said that after the crash, Cann ran off towards the old Sonesta Beach property and jumped down the embankment and over a fence before being caught by officers.

“The rider despite being signalled by the sirens and lights continued to flee from police,” Ms Clarke said.

“He continued east along Middle Road overtaking every vehicle in its path in a dangerous manner on blind bends.

“The rider continually swerved back and forth across both the east and the west bound lanes whilst travelling at speed. “

Ms Clarke added: “The rider continued east along Middle Road in a dangerous manner before turning right at speed onto Camp Hill Road, almost colliding with a marked police car that was stationary at the junction with its emergency lights on.”

Cann was arrested and told officers he had not stopped because the bike was unlicensed and uninsured.

Asked if there was anything he wished to say in his defence he replied: ‘No sir.”

Magistrate Khamisi Tokunbo imposed an 18 month driving disqualification and a $2,000 fine.