A DRIVER who sparked a high- speed chase when he tried to flee from police was jailed for nine months yesterday.

James Bulmer was followed when officers noticed him speed up because of their presence in Windermere Avenue, Easington Lane, near Durham City, on August 20 last year.

Newcastle Crown Court heard how Bulmer drove at speeds of up to 50mph in a 30mph zone, crossing onto the wrong side of the road and almost losing control of his Volvo motor in a bid to get away.

Bulmer only stopped when he became blocked in by other traffic on North Road, Hetton-le-Hole, and was arrested.

The 45-year-old, who has a string of previous convictions, said in interview he had no idea he was being pursued by police and claimed the officers were lying when they said he was speeding away.

But Bulmer, of Featherstone Street, Roker, Sunderland, later admitted dangerous driving, driving without a licence and driving without insurance.

He also admitted breaching a community rehabilitation order imposed earlier for stealing property worth more than £1,000 from shops.

Defence barrister Jane Waugh said Bulmer, who has been diagnosed with cleptomania, was due to undergo psychiatric treatment and has completed a driving awareness course.