PC sparked car chase through country lanes (From Witney Gazette)

PC sparked car chase through country lanes

10:00am Thursday 8th February 2007 in Witney

AN OFF-DUTY policeman led colleagues on a high-speed chase through country roads while twice the drink-drive limit, a jury was told this week.

Police constable Timothy Dunning, of Ansell Way, Milton-under-Wychwood, was spotted by PC Robert Stubley, who decided to pursue him because he was driving too fast.

The court heard that 44-year-old Dunning, pictured, an officer with Thames Valley Police, ignored PC Stubley's blue flashing lights as he tried to out-accelerate the patrol car. The incident took place in the early hours of March 15, 2006.

The chase continued for 17 minutes, with Dunning driving at up to 70mph through country lanes around his home village, the jury was told.

He was arrested when he turned his Vauxhall Astra van into a cul-de-sac and was breathalysed. The reading showed he was twice the legal alcohol limit. Details of the chase were revealed at Reading Crown Court, where Dunning denied a charge of dangerous driving. He had earlier admitted a drink-driving charge.

PC Stubley said: "I approached him and asked 'why did you not stop?'. He said 'I'm not answering any of your questions'."

Dunning was handcuffed and arrested on suspicion of failing to stop for a police officer. The court heard that as officers tried to get Dunning into the back of their police car, he began to struggle. He gave his name as Winterbottom.

Dunning told the court that he had refused to stop because he was too embarrassed.

The chase began as Dunning came out of Burford on his way home from Faringdon. They continued into Milton-under-Wychwood. The chase came to an end in Forest Close.

The trial continues.