A NOVICE driver lost control of his car and crashed while children were playing nearby.

Ally Kimbunga had never passed his test in the UK and had no insurance for the Rover 45, a court heard.

The 42-year-old, from Middlesbrough, was said by his lawyer to have driven in Africa “but not much” before moving to this country.

Gary Wood, mitigating, told Teesside Crown Court that Kimbunga “got a good deal on the car” and took it despite not being qualified to drive.

He had passed his theory exam, but was “some way off” taking his practical test, Mr Wood said.

The divorced dad pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, having no insurance and driving without a licence after the crash in Dales Park Road, Hemlington, Middlesbrough, on May 21.

He was given a 12-month community order with 100 hours of unpaid work, a 12-month disqualification and £200 compensation.

The court heard that when Kimbunga lost control of his car on a bend, it crashed into and damaged a Honda Civic.

Mr Wood said: “His car was seized by the police, and the damage to it was minor. If he is allowed it back, he will sell it and pay compensation. If he was not allowed it back, he would make other efforts to raise money.”

The court heard that Kimbunga, of Eskdale, Hemlington, works as a fruit-picker.