A POLICEMAN was dragged along a petrol station forecourt after trying to stop a suspected disqualified driver, a court heard yesterday.

James Webber, 26, of Jameson Terrace, South Hetton, County Durham, admitted driving whilst disqualified, dangerous driving and having no insurance, at Teesside Crown Court.

John Gillette, prosecuting, told the court that on November 2, police followed Webber on to a garage forecourt.

When asked, Webber had denied being a disqualified driver, although his ban had six days to run.

One officer then took hold of Webber's shoulder and asked him to get out of the car. But Webber pressed the accelerator and the car leapt forward.

The car moved for 30 yards, dragging the officer along the ground.

Robin Turton, for Webber, said his client thought his ban was completed.

Recorder Palmer jailed Webber for 12 months and disqualified him for driving for three years