A DANGEROUS driver led police on a high speed chase reaching speeds of up to 80mph and causing drivers to take evasive action, a court heard.

Teenager John Thomson sped past police officers in a red Renault Clio.

Mo Miah, prosecuting, told Colchester Magistrates' Court Thomson failed to stop in Parkeston Road, Dovercourt.

Police officers were forced to put on their emergency lights and sirens before following him on to the A120, where he was driving at 60mph, and then on to the B1035 towards Manningtree.

Mr Miah said: “It’s a long, windy, rural road. Part of that road has obscured views.

“The driver failed to stop again and went towards Mistley, accelerating rapidly and overtaking cars.

“The traffic was light but several cars were inconvenienced.

"He was doing 80mph on a 60mph road, only slowing down for bends and traffic in front.

“He caused oncoming drivers to stop or take invasive actions to stop a collision.”

Officers eventually caught up with Thomson at the junction of Long Road, Manningtree, at about 3.30pm.

When interviewed, Thomson described his driving as “appalling” despite having a passenger in the car.

Thomson, who has ADHD and autism, admitted driving whilst disqualified, without insurance and dangerous driving on the B1035 Clacton Road.

He claimed to have being scared and said he became panicked when he saw flashing lights.

He also said he had not been taking his medication.

The teenager was under a six-month driving ban which was not due to finish until three days after the incident.

Thomson, 18, of Stour Close, Harwich, also admitted burglary with intent to steal in February last year.

More than £600 worth of damage was caused to a beach hut window at West Foreshore at Wrabness.

Nothing was stolen but items were moved in preparation for theft, Mr Miah said.

DNA from a beer can inside the hut provided a trace to Thomson.

Thomson was granted conditional bail with a curfew between 7pm and 7am until he appears at Chelmsford Crown Court on September 5.