A DRINK driver took a friend's van and led police on a five-mile chase before crashing into a parked car and running off.
Mark Stanger was spotted by police speeding through Easington in the early hours of the morning in a van with two other people inside, a court heard.
David Crook, prosecuting at Durham Crown Court, said: "One of the occupants threw cans of beer fr
om it, which exploded as they hit the road in front of the pursuing police car.
"Stanger drove at about 60mph in a 30mph speed limit area as he made his way towards Shotton Colliery.
"As he came to a halt in Hawthorn Terrace, he hit a parked car, before fleeing.
"The pursuit lasted for about five miles and had a duration of about five minutes."
Stanger, 22, of A J Cook Terrace, Shotton Colliery, admitted dangerous driving, driving with excess alcohol, and criminal damage.
Lorraine Mustard, mitigating, said: "Mr Stanger is still a young man and he has just become a father.
"He tells me he is enjoying the responsibility, and it is to be hoped it will be the making of him."
The Recorder, Mr Keith Miller sentenced Stanger to a 12-month community order, including a four-month night-time curfew.
The recorder said: "It's not pleasant for someone to be called an idiot, but that is how you behaved.
"I'm not going to lock you up, because I think your baby son and girlfriend need you. Make sure the child does not grow up with a record like yours."
Stanger was banned from driving for three years, and he must take an extended test if he wishes to drive again.
