Justin Anthony Heywood was arrested in a foot chase with police late on Sunday night near St Joseph's primary in West Tamworth.

The 38-year-old is charged with supplying more than an indictable quantity of methamphetamine, with police alleging he was in possession of approximately 10g of the drug ice.

The Tamworth Target Action Group (TAG) were patrolling the West Tamworth area when they spotted Heywood about 11pm.

Officers claim he was acting suspiciously and they tried to stop him when he ran from police. They gave chase and he was eventually arrested near the entrance to the primary school.

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Police allege Heywood struggled violently with officers, lashed out at them and resisted arrest, and was in possession of an extendable baton.

Heywood was arrested and handcuffed and taken to Tamworth police station where he was refused bail by police and spent the night in custody.

He appeared in Tamworth Local Court on Monday and pleaded not guilty to the charge of drug supply and made no application for release.

His bail was formally refused by magistrate Julie Soars, who ordered him to remain in custody until the case returns to court in May.

Police will prepare a brief of evidence in the interim.

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