A YOUNG driver who hit a Mercedes and then smashed into two parked cars after police started following him has walked free from court.

Simon Price, 20, who clocked about 60mph in 30mph residential streets in the one-mile escapade, had friends in his car, but only he ended up injured, breaking his wrist in the crash.

Price had not passed his test, was not insured and panicked when he saw the officer behind him, Burnley Crown Court heard.

Price was banned for a year and will have to take an extended driving test before he is allowed behind the wheel again.

On top of that, when he does pass his test, he faces paying about £4,000 a year for car insurance.

The defendant, of Bridgefield Close, Rishton, had admitted dangerous driving, no licence and no insurance on March 22 and had been committed for sentence by Hyndburn magistrates.

Price, who had no convictions, was given a 12-month community order, with 200 hours unpaid work. He must pay £200 costs.