A MECHANIC who went back on the roads while serving his 13th driving ban has been spared jail.

Robert Sampson, 41, was banned for the 14th time yesterday after the judge told him he had the most appalling driving record she had ever seen.

Newcastle Crown Court heard how Sampson, who owns Premier Autos, in Sunderland, sparked a high-speed police chase when he was spotted on his motorbike in Redcar Road on July 18.

Nick Peacock, prosecuting, said three police cars were involved in the pursuit before Sampson gave up.

Sampson was seen on the bike earlier that day but officers were unable to catch him after he rode at up to 100mph, said Mr Peacock.

Sampson was first banned from driving in 1980 and has since received 13 disqualifications, his previous one in September last year when he was banned for a year.

Peter Kilgour, mitigating, said Sampson was hoping to pass the extended driving test so he can take to the roads legitimately and bitterly regretted his behaviour in July.

Mr Kilgour said the married father was now running his business successfully, with his brother doing the driving.

Judge Beatrice Bolton said: "You have the most appalling driving record I have ever seen.This was blatant defiance of the police and the courts."

Sampson, of Oaklands Crescent, Sunderland, was sentenced to 100 hours community punishment, a community rehabilitation order for 18 months and ordered to pay £200 costs.

He was banned from driving for 12 months.

Sampson admitted two charges of driving while disqualified, two of driving with no insurance, one of dangerous driving and one of driving without due care and attention.

He was warned that if he breached any of the orders, he was likely to be jailed