A TEENAGER fled the North-East to start a new life on the South coast to avoid being sentenced for drink-driving.

Richard Liam Rogerson was committed for sentence at Durham Crown Court last May, after admitting dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, excess alcohol and no insurance, at a previous magistrates' hearing.

The offences stemmed from a 40-mile chase on the A19, during which Rogerson, serving a two-year motoring ban, drove a Vauxhall Astra at high speed and erratically from Seaham through Teesside, last March.

The Astra was eventually stopped by four police cars.

Ros Scott-Bell, prosecuting, said a warrant was issued for Rogerson's arrest when he failed to turn up at court in May. He was arrested on Sunday in Sussex, where he has been living with an aunt and uncle in Selsay.

Andrew Finlay, mitigating, said, fearing he would be jailed due to his driving record, Rogerson fled and found work as a caravan fitter.

He and his girlfriend are now expecting a child.

Rogerson, 19, formerly of Ryton Crescent, Seaham, was jailed for 16 months and banned from driving for a further two years.