A DRUNK driver who led police on a car chase around Ardleigh has escaped being locked up.
Gary McKennon sped off in his Range Rover after he saw officers and damaged a police car during the incident on February 21 this year.
McKennon, 48, of Parsons Hill, Great Bromley, also drove towards three police cars and travelled up to 65mph in a 30mph limit.
Officers had been contacted after concerns were raised about someone drinking in a nearby pub was intending to drive.
He was told by a Chelmsford Crown Court judge it was only his guilty pleas and lack of previous convictions that saved him from an immediate jail sentence.
He admitted dangerous driving, drink-driving and driving without a licence and insurance when he appeared in court for sentence.
He was given a jail term totalling 26 weeks, but it was suspended for 18 months.
He was also banned from driving for 15 months.
Recorder Jason Beer also told McKennon to attend a drink impairment course run by the Probation Service.
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