Huddersfield driver in 91mph police chase was 'laughing' after 'ridiculous decisions'

A 19-year-old Huddersfield driver led police on a high-speed pursuit in which he drove at speeds of up to 91mph and narrowly missed families including a pedestrian pushing a pram, a court heard.

Rohan Astle, of Old Road, Holmfirth, admitted driving dangerously and without insurance. He also admitted possessing counterfeit money totalling £780.

When police pulled up alongside his vehicle with a female passenger on board, Astle made off towards Hade Edge and then headed towards Holmfirth. During the chase through residential areas, he hit 52mph in a 30mph zone and then 91mph in a 60mph zone. When the car came to a halt, his female passenger made off on foot before Astle continued driving. Police deployed a stinger device which deflated the vehicle's tyres, and he was subsequently caught after a foot chase.

Following his arrest, Astle was said to be laughing and had shown no remorse, the court was told. He was found to have been driving on only a provisional licence, and the vehicle was on cloned plates.

Magistrates heard that since the offending incident, Astle had made changes in his life and had started a car valeting business. During sentencing, they told him: "We hope this community order will address the ridiculous and serious decisions you have made which were a big mistake."

Astle was handed a 12-month community order and instructed to carry out 10 rehabilitation and activity days plus 200 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay costs of £199.