A DRIVER who forced a member of the public to dive out of his path as he drove at more than twice the speed limit to escape police has been jailed.

Daryl Forster mounted a pavement for 200m and sped past two primary schools while parents picked up their children, Teesside Crown Court heard.

Police originally tried to stop the 24-year-old because he had no front registration plate on his Vauxhall Astra Estate.

But Forster, of Irvine Road, Hartlepool, was concerned if he stopped he would get six points on his licence for having no insurance.

David Crook, prosecuting, said the chase on October 23 lasted for about three minutes.

“The police put on their blue flashing lights and sirens were switched on. The defendant failed to stop and increased his speed,” he said.

“He drove well in excess of the 30mph speed limit. “

Andrew Teate, defending, said that his client legitimately owned the car and had a full driving licence.

He said: “He was not in the position to afford insurance when he purchased the car.

“He accepts responsibility for the event and acknowledges the risk. He is remorseful.”

Judge Peter Armstrong sentenced Forster to eight months in prison.

He said: “Driving in the way you did not only put yourself and passengers in danger but also members of the public and school children.

“How you thought you would get away from the police is hard to believe.”

Forster was also disqualified from driving for a year and will receive six points for having no insurance.