A police pursuit during which speeds of 80mph were reached in mainly residential areas came to an end when a stinger was deployed.

Blackburn Magistrates' Court heard Jehangir Ashraf tested positive for cocaine and was also found in possession of cannabis following the chase on August 8.

Ashraf, 31, of Ash Tree Grove, Nelson, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, drug driving and possession of cannabis.

He was made subject to a community order for 12 months with 20 days Rehabilitation Activity Requirement and 160 hours unpaid work.

He was ordered to pay £85 costs and £114 victim surcharge and banned from driving for three years.

Julia Draper, prosecuting, said the pursuit started in Barkerhouse Road, Nelson, and then took in Scotland Road, Charles Street, Reedyford Road, Barrowford Road, Carr Road, Norfolk Street, Beddington Street, Cuckstool Lane and Railway Street before ending in Halifax Road.

"The chase took place mainly in residential areas and the defendant reached speeds in excess of 80mph as well as going through a red light," said Miss Draper

She said Ashraf had a previous conviction for drug driving in 2017.

John Rusius, mitigating, said a police stinger brought the chase to a halt and a police officer had smashed the window of the defendant's Ford Focus with his baton and removed the keys.

"As he has said to me today it was the most stupid thing he has ever done," said Mr Rusius.

"He had a bit of cannabis on him and he panicked."

He said the incident had brought his client to his senses and he had now stopped using drugs.

"He realises it just gets him into trouble," said Mr Rusius.