A boy racer narrowly avoided smashing into a family home following a high-speed police chase, a court was told.

Thomas Beaney's car careered into a front garden and came to rest just inches away from the home after racing at speeds of 70mph through the streets of Billericay and Stock, Basildon Magistrates' Court was told.

Beaney, 19, of Dock Road, Tilbury, admitted dangerous driving and a host of other driving-related offences.

He will be sentenced at Basildon Crown Court.

Diane Stenning, prosecuting, told magistrates that Beaney sparked the chase after he was ordered to stop his Vauxhall Cavalier by police in Billericay High Street.

He raced off and was followed by police in a game of catch-up that weaved through the streets of Billericay, Stock and surrounding country lanes.

Beaney only just managed to stay in control of his car.

Mrs Stenning said: "In Outward Common Road on a right-hand bend he only just managed to keep to the road.

"He swerved between stationary cars, narrowly missing a collision."

The chase came to a dramatic end in Meadow Rise, Billericay. Mrs Stenning said: "He lost complete control of the car outside a house.

"He mounted the kerb and ended up in the front garden, 18 inches from the house."

Beaney, formerly of Linda Gardens, Billericay, also admitted not stopping when ordered to, failing to provide a roadside breath test and possessing cannabis.

The hearing was adjourned and Beaney was released on unconditional bail to appear again at Basildon Magistrates' Court on September 1.

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