A DRIVER flashed by police because his car was blocking a junction reversed at 30 mph, narrowly missing the police vehicle.

Blackburn magistrates heard the 4x4 driven by Anthony Lee Ormerod collided with street furniture before speeding off.

Police said when he when he eventually stopped Ormerod was completely obstructive and behaved in "bizarre" fashion.

Ormerod, 48, of Blackburn Road, Darwen, pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen for analysis.

He was made subject to a community order for 12 months with 120 hours unpaid work, banned from driving for 24 months and ordered to pay £85 costs and £85 victim surcharge.

"It was clear to the officer the defendant was impaired although he couldn't smell alcohol," said Cathy Allan, prosecuting.

"He suspected he must be under the influence of drugs because of his bizarre behaviour."

Miss Allan said Ormerod stuck his tongue out for a saliva swab but then retracted his tongue and laughed at the officer.

She said Ormerod had a previous conviction in 2012 for being in charge of a vehicle while unfit through drink or drugs.

Richard Prew, defending, said there had been two attempts to comply with the breathalyser procedure but neither had been completed.