A VAN stopped by police on the A59 at Whalley was found to be displaying false number plates.

Blackburn magistrates heard inquiries revealed the driver was disqualified.

Ryan Richards, 28, of Tempest Street, Bolton, pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified and without insurance. He was jailed for eight weeks and ordered to pay £115 victim surcharge. The court was told Richards had previous convictions for failing to provide a specimen in 2013, disqualified and dangerous driving in 2014 and disqualified and dangerous driving in 2016 when he was banned for five years and until he passes an extended re-test.

Catherine Allan, prosecuting, said Richards was subject to the latest ban as well as the requirement to pass an extended re-test.

"When he was stopped he admitted putting on the false plates because he had no insurance," said Miss Allan.

Leigh Morgan, defending, said her client's first driving offence was at the age of 13 and most of his offending since had been to do with vehicles.

"He has never achieved his driving licence properly because of his ongoing offences," said Miss Leigh.