A DRINK-DRIVER forced police into a high-speed chase around a Kent city because he was scared his new car would be taken away.

Duane Lee, 26, of South Street, Canterbury, took officers on a pursuit across several parts of the city before stopping in the front garden of a house.

Ruth Dalziel, prosecuting, said he drove over a mini-roundabout "at over 60mph".

Kerry Waitt, for Lee, said he had bought the car on finance and could not afford insurance.

He said Lee had spent the night with friends but had decided to drive home late when he found out they would sleep in their cars in a caravan park.

Mr Waitt said: "Mr Lee panicked and thought his car would be taken from him. It was blind panic, he just wanted to get home."

Lee admitted drink-driving, dangerous driving, failing to stop, no insurance and no MOT.

He was given an 18-month supervision order and ordered to complete a drink-related driving programme. He must also pay £60 costs.

* More details in this week's Kentish Gazetee.