A POLICE officer described Scott Allison's driving as "suicidal" as he raced off in an attempt to escape arrest.

Blackburn magistrates heard he reached speeds of over 60mph in built up areas of Blackburn, overtaking other vehicles and passing one on the apex of a blind bend.

And the 20-year-old former soldier was jailed for six months after magistrates heard that at the time of the offence he was a disqualified driver.

Allison, 20, of Cornelian Street, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified, dangerous driving and driving without insurance.

As well as the prison sentence he was banned from driving for two years and must take an extended re-test before holding a full licence again.

Clare Fanning, prosecuting, said police first saw a Fiesta XR2 being driven by Allison in Whalley New Road.

They recognised him as a man who had been disqualified the previous month and gave chase.

Allison accelerated into Birley Street and swerved to the off-side as he overtook another car. He reached speeds in access of 60mph before turning into Daisy Street where he overtook on a blind bend.

The Fiesta turned into Pickup Street and immediately into Fort Street and the police car could not keep up. They lost sight of the vehicle before spotting it again, briefly, in Stanley Street and then losing it completely.

Allison was arrested later at his home address.

Ian Huggan, defending, said that at the time of the incident Allison's 18-year-old partner was pregnant and she had telephoned to say she was having difficulties.

"My client has found it difficult adapting to civilian life but he is making great strides, having found work and trying to make a life for his partner and their young son," added Mr Huggan.