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.