A PROVISIONAL licence holder made the “foolish” decision to drive the short distance to the corner shop.

But his decision making was even more flawed when he was approached by a police patrol because of the way he had parked his van.

Blackburn magistrates heard Jake Hargreaves mounted the pavement before speeding away from the officer.

Hargreaves, 19, of Sydney Street, Clayton-le-Moors, pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention, other than in accordance with a licence and without insurance and failing to stop for a police officer.

He was fined £120 with £85 costs and £32 victim surcharge and his licence endorsed with six penalty points.

Tracy Yates, prosecuting, said the officer’s attention was drawn to a Ford Transit van which was badly parked on Whalley Road.

He wound his window down to speak to the driver who sped off, turning into Melbourne Street, Atlas Street and Sydney Street before stopping suddenly.

“The driver got out and ran into his home address with the police following,” said Mrs Yates.

“A female shouted at the police demanding to know what they were doing in her home but the defendant’s brother said he had just run through the house. He went out and shouted to his brother to come back.”

Hargreaves told police he had panicked because he knew he had done wrong.

Gareth Price, defending, said it had been a foolish decision to drive to the shop which was literally around the corner.