A "STUPID" car crook is behind bars after trying to lead a judge down the wrong road.

Matthew Clark claimed he missed a meeting with a probation officer because he was trying to get a job.

The 23-year-old claimed the important appointment clashed with a week-long course he was on last month.

The meeting had been arranged so a pre-sentence report could be written ahead of a date at Teesside Crown Court.

Clark was due to be sentenced for dangerous driving today (Tuesday, December 9), but his lawyer asked for an adjournment.

Andrew Turton said Clark disputed a Probation Service claim that he missed the meeting because he slept in.

He told Judge Michael Taylor that the Darlington man had been on an employment course at a local firm.

The judge asked the solicitor to call the company for proof, saying: "I'm more than a bit sceptical."

Mr Turton later returned to court to reveal: "It seems Your Honour's scepticism was borne out in this case.

"I have made inquiries in relation to the suggestion made by Mr Clark and I have to say it doesn't check out."

The judge remanded Clark into custody for a fortnight, when he will sentence him for the February 25 offence.

Clark, of Aldham Street, and Brian Jones, 38, of Whinfield Road, both Darlington, admitted dangerous driving.

The pair raced each other along the town's Duke Street, Woodlands Road, Milbank Road, Carmel Road and Blackwell Lane.

The judge said after Clark was taken to the cells: "How are they so stupid to think they can pull the wool over anybody's eyes?"

Mr Turton replied: "It never ceases to amaze me."

Judge Taylor added: "I'm cynical by nature, but I can sniff out a fib."