An R driver who drove in excess of 45mph has been handed a fine and five penalty points after police had to accelerate up to 100mph to reach the driver.

Stephen Daniel Johnston (18) of Brackvede Park was observed by police on December 9, 2021 driving what they believed to be in excess of 45mph, the restricted speed for all R drivers.

The court heard that police did not calibrate speed and indicated the driver was travelling above 60mph. The prosecutor for the court added: “Police had to accelerate to 100mph.”

The defence solicitor for Johnston asked for consideration to be given on the basis of his early plea.

Deputy District Judge Brian Archer said: “This is a horrendous piece of driving for an R driver, even for a person with a full licence.”

The defence solicitor added that Johnston had come to the end of his probationary period.

The judge asked, If the defendant had “any idea in his head at all, of the danger losing control at that speed can cause?

“I have taken instruction on cases at 60-70mph where cars have hit trees and caused life changing injuries.”

The judge then queried if there was any reason given for Johnston’s excess speed, and his defence solicitor confirmed there was none. When asked the defence solicitor confirmed that Johnston still had access to his vehicle.

Speaking to the defendant, the judge said: “After today your insurance will be very expensive.”

Handing Johnston a fine of £300 and five penalty points, Judge Archer warned: “Anything else over the next year and you’re off the road.”