A learner motorist, who was twice the drink-drive limit, has been jailed for eight months.

Deryk White, 27, was also banned from driving for three years after he fled from police along the wrong way of a one-way street.

White, of Lincoln Road, Basildon, pleaded guilty to drink-driving, dangerous driving, common assault on police and resisting arrest.

Prosecutor Gelaga King said White was spotted by police near Billericay rail station.

He stopped in front of the officers, but as they approached him, he put his foot down and sped away.

Mr King said White drove against the traffic and other motorists had to take evasive action. He eventually lost control of the car and came to a stop. No one was hurt.

He jumped out of the car and ran off. Police chased after him and one officer was hurt as they brought him to the ground, added Mr King.

White, who has a previous drink-drive conviction, is the holder of a provisional licence only, Mr King told Basildon Crown Court.

The defendant claimed he made off from police because of unpaid court fines. He accepted that his driving that day last December was appalling.

Published Friday, April 25, 2003

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