A DRIVER police suspected to be high on drugs tried to ram a police car, hit a vehicle and then "flatly refused" to give a blood sample, a court was told.

Burnley magistrates heard how Gary Wilkinson, 33, told police he would not give a specimen unless he was given a supply of methadone.

Wilkinson, of Shale Street, Burnley, was put on probation for 12 months and will take part in the responsible drivers programme. He was also banned from driving for three years and must take an extended driving test.

The defendant admitted dangerous driving, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, without insurance and test certificate, failing to provide a specimen for analysis and failing to surrender to custody.

Sarah Statham, prosecuting, told the court that in the early hours Wilkinson's vehicle was seen veering from side to side. Police put on their stop sign and followed the defendant, thinking he might be drunk.

Wilkinson continued to travel through Burnley, mounted the pavement, hit a car and made no attempt to stop. He then skidded across a junction and when the police car drew up, Wilkinson attempted to reverse into it.

Miss Statham said an officer got out and when the defendant tried to escape, the officer grabbed the car keys. The vehicle eventually stopped and Wilkinson was arrested.

He was asked to provide a specimen of blood, as police felt he may be under the influence of drugs. He flatly refused and said he would not do so unless he was given some methadone.

Wilkinson had a previous conviction for driving with excess alcohol. Alan Wilson, defending, said Wilkinson had a long list of previous convictions, but asked to be given an opportunity to comply with a non-custodial sentence and be rehabilitated in relation to cars and driving.

He fully accepted his behaviour was irresponsible and foolish and in interview, he expressed his remorse and apologised.

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