A 22-YEAR-OLD disqualified driver raced through the streets of Longridge at speeds of up to 70 mph on a Friday night -- just three days after he had been banned.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Robert McKenna sped down a back alley at more than 30 mph with his lights out as police tried to stop him.

Three pedestrians had to jump out of the way as police pursued McKenna and they eventually gave up the chase because it was considered too dangerous.

But when McKenna was arrested at his home shortly after he was found to be more than double the legal drink-drive limit.

McKenna, 22, of Mardale Road, Longridge, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol, driving while disqualified and without insurance and dangerous driving. He was disqualified from driving for three years, made subject to a community rehabilitation order for 18 months, ordered to do 100 hours community service and fined a total of £600 with £60 costs.

Neil White, prosecuting, said the incident started outside the White Bull at about 11 pm when a police officer heard the sound of screeching tyres. He saw a Peugeot performing a skidding manoeuvre outside the pub and then accelerate towards the officer who could see McKenna was the driver.

McKenna turned into Berry Lane at high speed and then turned down a back alley with no lights on before coming back onto Berry Lane.

Richard Prew, defending, said McKenna, who works for East Lancs Coachbuilders had been out drinking and had been given a lift home by a friend. He said his client could not explain why he had then got his car keys and taken his car.