A TEENAGER who stole his flatmate’s car and crashed into a former doctor’s surgery has been banned from driving.

The 17-year-old, from Blackhill, Consett, lost control of a Ford Fiesta on Queens Road, not far from home while going to pick up friends in the town centre.

The car smashed into the former medical practice, which is now used for storage.

Ms Clare Irving, prosecuting at Consett Youth Club, said: "He said he went around the corner with too much power and skidded on the ice.

"The damage has caused the brickwork to be affected along with the door’s alignment. There was extensive damage."

The youth pleaded guilty to failing to stop and report a road accident, driving without due care and attention, a licence or insurance as well as aggravated vehicle taking on January 8.

Mitigating, David Malone said: "He feels extremely remorseful at taking the vehicle without his flatmate’s knowledge.

"It was inclement weather, he lost control and ran away."

The youth was banned from driving for a year, fined £100, ordered to £85 in costs as well as a £15 victim surcharge.