A DRUNKEN banned motorist who repeatedly tailgated a newly qualified driver was today (Tuesday March 26) jailed for 19 months.

Durham Crown Court heard that the sentence may, however, help to prolong the life of the defendant, Gary McKitten.

The court was told he is suffering potentially life-threatening liver problems, through excessive drinking, but by being behind bars he has no access to alcohol.

McKitten, 47, of Marigold Crescent, Bournmoor, near Chester-le-Street, admitted dangerous driving, while disqualified, without insurance, excess alcohol, failing to report an accident, and using threatening, abusive or insulting words and behaviour.

Sam Faulks, prosecuting, said McKitten, subject of a five year motoring ban for drink driving at the time, took to the wheel of his father’s Ford Focus car after a row at 5.45pm on May 31 last year.

Mr Faulks said McKitten, who had been drinking vodka for much of the day, drove up the A693 from Chester-le-Street towards Stanley, “effectively tailgating” a Vauxhall Corsa, driven by a newly qualified driver.

He twice shunted into the back of the Corsa and the driver was so frightened he headed straight to Stanley Police Station to report his actions.

Police caught up with McKitten as he was trying to gain access to the home of his estranged wife, in Stanley, carrying an iron bar.

He was forcibly arrested and a blood test revealed he was more than four times over the drink-drive limit.

McKitten told police the motorist ahead was “dithering” and he wanted to pull over to speak to him about his driving.

Alex Burns, mitigating, said since this incident McKitten has served a further prison sentence for driving while disqualified and drink driving.

Mr Burns said he has also been in custody for three months for these offences, ensuring he has remained drink-free for longer.

“He has been in touch with an alcohol liaison officer so he has a contact to try to keep him off drink when he is released.”

Jailing him, Recorder Jonathan Bennett told McKitten: “I’m told the moment you start drinking again could have a distinct effect on your life expectancy.

“The irony is that the moment you are out of prison again there’s a risk you are going to start drinking again.

“You are a danger when you have too much to drink or get behind the wheel of a vehicle, with untold consequences.”

McKitten was also banned from driving for four years.