A DISQUALIFIED driver got behind the wheel to deliver a car to a buyer after his original plan failed.

Blackburn magistrates heard Jake Darren Smith had arranged for his girlfriend to drive the car but they had a row and she refused.

She then phoned the police and told them his route when he got behind the wheel himself.

Smith, 28, of Pine Street, Nelson, pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified and without insurance.

He was made subject to a community order for 12 months with 20 days rehabilitation activity requirement and 150 hours' unpaid work. He was banned from driving for 12 months.

Rachel Ottley, prosecuting, said Smith was seen driving on the M65 and stopped in Darwen.

“He told the officer he had just bought the car during his period of disqualification.

Phillip Turner, defending, said Smith had bought the car to sell it on and had a prospective buyer.

“He had arranged for his girlfriend to drive the car but they argued and she refused to carry out the delivery,” said Mr Turner.

“He foolishly decided to drive it himself and she telephoned the police and told them where he was going and they were able to cut him off.”

Mr Turner said Smith had been released from prison in September and had made positive changes in his life.