Burnley Crown Court heard how Paul Williams (32) refused to stop for police despite his window being smashed. He rammed a police vehicle before abandoning the car and running off, only to be detained after the police helicopter was called in and he was spotted using his mobile phone in a field.

Williams claimed he did not know they were police officers even though, the court was told, they were in uniform and wearing high visibility stab-proof vests.

The defendant, of Bolton Road, Walkden, had admitted dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, failing to stop and having no insurance. He was also banned for two years and must take an extended re-test.

Mr David Macro (prosecuting) said police were called to the Bay Horse at 4 p.m. on March 24th, after reports of people in masks and found a lot of cars were outside.

Police blocked in a Mercedes but a BMW driven by Williams drove off over the kerb and grass, despite an officer approaching the vehicle and shouting "Stop, police." and leaning into the car to take hold of his hands and the steering wheel. The defendant drove backwards, hitting a police car.

Williams smashed into a sign and drove in the officer's direction, making him jump out of the way. The officer smashed the rear passenger window with his baton but the defendant drove off.

The prosecutor added Williams had "quite a record" for similar offending and had been banned for two years in October 2006.

Mr Martin Pizzey (defending) said Williams knew his behaviour had been unacceptable and was prepared to take his punishment. He had nothing to do with the incident which may have been taking place at the Bay Horse.
A friend had asked him to drive his car a short distance. The mist had descended and he panicked.