A learner driver who was under the influence of cannabis took police on an 80mph chase along a 20-mile stretch of the A264.

Bricklayer David Jordan was at the wheel of a silver Ford Transit van with a digger in the back when he was followed by a police car with a dog inside in Tunbridge Wells.

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In fact, Jordan's vehicle rammed the police car so many times it was a write-off with a repair bill in excess of £7,300.

Now Jordan, 25, of Ringden Avenue, Tunbridge Wells, has been jailed for 15 months after admitting driving dangerously, causing criminal damage, possessing cannabis and other motoring offences.

Prosecutor Daniel Stevenson told Maidstone Crown Court: "He deliberately rammed the police vehicle, causing a substantial amount of damage.

"He didn't have a licence or insurance to drive any vehicle and was in possession of cannabis at the time."

The prosecutor told how on May 23, the van was seen by police at about 11pm along the A264 in Tunbridge Wells.

"The vehicle had no nearside rear light and there was a smell of cannabis coming from the vehicle so the officers decided to stop it.

"The defendant refused to stop and a pursuit began which lasted for approximately 30 minutes over a distance of some 20 miles," he said.

Mr Stevenson said Jordan exceeded the 30mph speed limit along residential roads, reversed at speed towards a police vehicle forcing it onto the verge.

"He also drove on the wrong side of the road and deliberately rammed a police vehicle on two or three occasions before accelerating to 80 mph with debris falling from the van.

"He then deliberately rammed the police vehicle again, causing serious damage before driving the wrong way around a roundabout, and then continuing with all four tyres deflated, " he said.

The chase, along Bells Yew Green Road ended in Turnden Road, Goudhurst, when the van came to a halt and Jordan fled - police then had to use the dog and a helicopter to locate him hiding in bushes.

The chase was captured on the officer's bodyworn camera and shown to court.

Tom Stern, defending, said Jordan was sorry for his behaviour but never intended to cause injury.

"He just panicked having unwisely agreeing to drive a friend's vehicle. He knows he should have stopped."

Jordan was also banned from driving for three and a half years.

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