A 22-YEAR-OLD disqualified driver raced through the streets of Longridge at speeds of up to 70 mph on Friday night, a court was told.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Robert McKenna sped down a back alley at more than 30 mph with his lights out as police tried to stop him.

Three pedestrians had to jump out of the way as police pursued McKenna and they eventually gave up the chase because it was considered too dangerous, the court was told.

But when McKenna was arrested at his home shortly after he was found to be more than double the legal drink drive limit.

McKenna, 22, of Mardale Road, Longridge, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol, driving while disqualified and without insurance and dangerous driving.

He was bailed until July 14 for the preparation of pre-sentence reports. The magistrates said that all options including custody would be open to the sentencing bench after being told that McKenna had been disqualified from driving just three days before the incident.

Peter Wild, prosecuting, said a police officer heard the sound of screeching tyres outside the White Bull pub about 11pm. He saw a Peugeot perform a skidding manoeuvre then accelerate towards the officer, who could see McKenna was driving.

He turned into Berry Lane at high speed and then turned down a back alley with no lights on before coming back on to Berry Lane.

Richard Prew, defending, said McKenna, who works for East Lancs Coachbuilders, had been drinking and had been given a lift home by a friend.

"He can't explain why he then got his car key and went out driving."