A WORKER ignored a road block and sparked a police chase because he was late for his shift, a court was told.

Burnley Crown Court heard how newly-wed Daniel Newcombe, 29, wanted to arrive on time for work because it earned him extra money.

Newcombe, of Barry Street, Burnley, wiped away tears at court as Recorder Andrew Nuttall told him he would not be sending him to prison because he appeared to be "a nice man".

The court was told that police had closed Blackburn Road, Padiham, following an accident last December.

However, Newcombe drove around the road block, causing several other cars to follow him.

A police officer went to speak to him and told him he would be arrested if he did not give his details.

The officer then tried to detain Newcombe but he put up a struggle. He got back in his car and drove off with his tyres screeching.

Prosecutor David Macro, said officers tried to follow him but he accelerated and overtook three lorries queueing at red traffic lights.

Mr Macro said: "His driving was totally reckless and there was a lot of traffic about." Newcombe admitted dangerous driving and obstructing police.

Nick Courtenay, for Newcombe, said he did not accept any of the prosecution case but did not want to change his plea.

He had undertaken an extremely dangerous and stupid manoeuvre in overtaking the lorries, Mr Courtenay said.

Mr Courtenay said Newcombe had not wanted to escape the police because of any unlawful activities or because he had been drinking.

The barrister said: "He was late and wanted to get to work. That is no excuse for driving in a dangerous manner, but it's one of the better, if not the best, reason for wanting to hurry."

Newcombe was described as a man of good character, who looked after his father and took him to hospital appointments. He married his wife a month ago after being together for eight years.

Recorder Nuttall told the court the defendant was an excellent father, son and husband who took his responsibilities seriously - and that weighed heavily with him.

He said: "This is a very unusual thing for me to do for offences of this kind, but I believe this is the right sentence for you."

He was given 180 hours unpaid work with £100 costs.