Dangerous driver who led police on a high speed pursuit into Newcastle called 999 to claim he had a child in the car

A dangerous driver who led police on a high speed pursuit into Newcastle called 999 to make false claims that he had a child in the car.

Samuel Birch is facing jail after being admitting a string of driving offences linked to the police chase in the west end of the city on March 29 this year.

Newcastle Crown Court heard how officers on patrol on Denton Road signalled for the 30-year-old to stop after observing him speeding in his silver Vauxhall Corsa.

But Birch, who was wanted by police for outstanding offences, refused to stop and slammed his foot on the accelerator.

He then led police on a dangerous pursuit during which he drove on the wrong side of the road, ignored red lights and even put his phone out the window to film the pursuit.

As he headed into Newcastle City Centre, Birch then dialled 999 to order officers to “abort” the pursuit.

He told officers that if they did not stop following him then he would drive off a bridge – and that he had a “minor” in the car with him.

But the dangerous driver was the only occupant of the vehicle and moments later officers made contact with his vehicle and brought him to a stop outside St James’ Park.

He was arrested and charged with dangerous driving, failing to stop and two unrelated counts of malicious communications offences for which he was wanted.

Birch, of Maple Street, Ashington, admitted the offences at Newcastle Crown Court on Thursday and faces jail when he is brought back before the court.

Following the case, investigating officer PC Darren Lant said the fugitive put lives at risk with his behaviour behind the wheel.

Birch was released on bail and banned from driving until his sentencing hearing at Newcastle Crown Court on December 21.