A MAN who drove a car at a Marks & Spencer security guard in an attempt to evade capture after his partner stole hundreds of pounds worth of items from the store, has been sentenced to 16 months in prison.

Lee Hedge, from Darlington, drove his 34-year-old partner to Marks & Spencer in the town centre on September 22, last year.

Hedge remained in the car park while his partner entered the store and filled a trolley with over £370 worth of goods.

As the woman tried to get away with the trolley she was challenged in the car park by a security guard. She then ran to a Motability car issued to her and driven by Hedge.

As the security guard tried to open the door to apprehend the passenger, Hedge drove towards the security gate which had been closed by another guard, who was forced to jump out of the way.

Hedge, now aged 42, denied dangerous driving or that he played any part in the theft despite being captured on CCTV.

He was convicted of both theft and dangerous driving, receiving a total of 16 months imprisonment and was disqualified from driving for 26 months. He will have to pass a driving test before having his licence reissued at the end of his ban.

His accomplice, who pleaded guilty was given a community order including a requirement to go on a drug rehabilitation course.

Motability have also taken back the car.