A DANGEROUS driver who took police on a high-speed chase in the early hours of the morning has been given a chance to stay out of prison.

Luke Marshall reached speeds in excess of 100mph in his Audi after he sped away from police on December 30 last year.

The 32-year-old was given a six-month deferred sentence with the stark warning that custody awaits if he doesn't continue working with the probation service.

Teesside Crown Court heard how Marshall suffered with mental health issues resulting in 'manic episodes' where he had no recollection of his actions in Hartlepool town centre.

His lawyer, Kelleigh Lodge, said Marshall was now in work and trying to address his mental health condition.

Marshall, of Clarkson Court, Hartlepool, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and failing to provide a specimen for analysis.

Recorder Benjamin Nolan QC said: "This is about as bad as it gets, driving at 100mph in a 30mph area in the middle of the night when it was icy.

"Inevitably, there is a prison sentence in prospect but I am minded to give a prison sentence today but your very good report and letter from your partner show that you are making very good progress with your mental health problems."

The judge told Marshall he will be sentenced in February next year.

Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

You can also follow our dedicated Teesside Facebook page for all the latest in the area by clicking here.

For all the top news updates from right across the region straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.

Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on newsdesk@nne.co.uk or contact 01325 505054