An uninsured driver "lost his mind" when he saw a police car in the early hours of the morning.

Blackburn magistrates heard David Johnson raced off, reaching speeds of 80mph in 30mph zones including Gannow Lane, Padiham Road and Lowerhouse Lane in Burnley.

Johnson, 39, of Ellis Street, Barnoldswick, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and driving without insurance. He was sentenced to 26 weeks in prison suspended for 18 months. He was ordered to complete 15 days Rehabilitation Activity Requirement and 200 hours unpaid work and pay £154 victim surcharge and £84 costs. He was banned from driving for two years.

District Judge Alexandra Preston said it had been a disgraceful and dangerous piece of driving.

"You lost your mind when the police officer tried to stop you," said District Judge Preston. "I will view this as being an isolated incident."

Susheela Regala, prosecuting, said police saw the vehicle at 1.15am and a computer check showed it had been taken off the road and was not insured. When they went to stop it the car set off at speed reaching 80mph during a pursuit.

"At one point he braked harshly, lost control and narrowly missed other cars," said Miss Regala.

"He eventually got out of the car and tried to make off but he was arrested."

Richard Prew, defending, said it was the early hours of the morning and there was little traffic on the roads.

"All he can say is that he panicked, knowing there was no insurance on the vehicle," said Mr Prew.