[A] DANGER driver who smashed into the outer wall of a family’s Maryport home has been spared immediate prison.
Carlisle Crown Court was told those inside the end-of-terrace Lawson Steet house heard two loud bangs on the evening of January 13 as they watched television. Plaster fell from the inside walls, they heard tyres screeching and smelled burning rubber.
But 62-year-old Alan Baker continued driving his Jeep Cherokee, crashing into railings further up the street and then punching a bystander who tried to detain him as he fled on foot.
When police caught up with Baker – who had earlier crashed into two parked vehicles while more than twice the drink-drive limit – he initially claimed his Jeep had been stolen that night.
But he later admitted a host of charges, including dangerous driving, drink-driving, two counts of failing to stop after an accident and assault.
Baker, of Main Road, Flimby, had a 15-month prison sentence suspended due to declining health. He must complete a rehabilitation requirement, a night-time curfew and serve a three-year driving ban.
Judge Peter Hughes QC told him his behaviour that night had been “absolutely appalling”.
