A FATHER-TO-BE was locked up for two months yesterday after being caught driving a lorry without a licence only a day after an earlier disqualification had ended.

Peter Alderson, of Lowther Road, Woodhouse Close estate, Bishop Auckland, tried to run away from police officers when they stopped him on the A1M, close to Newton Aycliffe.

South Durham Magistrates Court heard that Alderson, 26, had never held a full driving licence and was disqualified for 12 months on March 4, last year after being pulled over by officers.

He was told he would have to take an extended driving test before getting behind the wheel again.

Barry Smith, prosecuting, said that one day after the disqualification expired, on March 5 this year, Alderson was seen driving without L-plates or a supervisor.

"Offers followed him and stopped him. He got out of the vehicle and ran away, but was subsequently apprehended," said Mr Smith.

Liam Bryson, for Alderson, said his client had already served a two month prison sentence for driving while disqualified in November 2002, running concurrently with a 15 month sentence for handling stolen goods.

Alderson, who lives with his parents and whose girlfriend is pregnant, pleaded guilty to driving without a licence or insurance.