Watch as a driver leads police through Newcastle in a dangerous high-speed chase

A dangerous driver who led Northumbria Police on a high speed pursuit into Newcastle and called 999 to claim he had a child in the car has admitted a string of driving crimes.

Samuel Birch has been told he faces jail for the offences, which are linked to a 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.

Instead Birch, who was wanted by police for outstanding offences, slammed his foot on the accelerator.

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

As he headed in to Newcastle's city centre, Birch then dialled 999 to order officers to “abort” the pursuit.

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

In fact Birch was the only person in the car 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.

Investigating officer PC Darren Lant said the fugitive put lives at risk with his behaviour behind the wheel and described Birch's driving as "appalling".

PC Land added that Birch's claim to have a child on board "says a lot about his character" and he was glad his team "were able to bring the pursuit to a safe conclusion".

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