A MAN was warned to expect to receive a “significant” prison sentence when he is back before a court later this month after admitting three counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

Adam Richardson was to have gone on trial at Durham Crown Court this week having previously denied charges relating to a single vehicle accident, which resulted in three passengers suffering serious injuries, one described as “life-changing”.

A Ford Focus he was driving went out of control and left the B1281 Hesleden Road, near the Hardwicke Hall Manor Hotel, in Blackhall, before hitting a tree, at about 9pm on April 3, 2019.

He denied driving and gave police the name of the person he said was behind the wheel at the time, leading to the innocent man’s arrest.

Richardson was involved in a further motoring incident, a police chase, driving a Citroen Xsara Picasso, in Horden, while disqualified, on December 10, 2019

The court was recently informed that the defendant intended to change his pleas.

Appearing at the court on Friday, Richardson, 33, of Greenhills Terrace, Wheatley Hill, admitted three charges of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, plus doing an act intended to pervert the course of justice, dangerous driving and driving while disqualified.

Shaun Dodds, prosecuting, asked for an adjournment so updated victim statements can be obtained to give the court the the prognosis for the injured passengers.

Judge James Adkin told Richardson: “You have now pleaded guilty to a serious offence of dangerous driving and perverting the course of justice. You should expect to receive a significant jail sentence in due course.”

Richardson was remanded in custody, pending sentence on January 29.