A MAN appeared at Southend Magistrates' Court yesterday (Wednesday 17 June) having been charged with dangerous driving and escaping from lawful custody following an incident in Grays on Saturday, 13 June.

Officers stopped the driver of a black Landrover Freelander on Bradleigh Avenue, after becoming suspicious of the vehicle. The driver refused to get out of the car and provide a breath test sample.

The driver was arrested on suspicion of failing to cooperate with a preliminary test and attempts were made by officers to get the man out of the vehicle.

The man resisted arrest and then drove off colliding with two police cars, considerably risking the safety of the police officers in attendance.

Terrance Purkiss, 33 of Bradleigh Avenue is next due to appear at Basildon Court on Wednesday, 15 July, charged with dangerous driving, criminal damage, escape from lawful custody, assault with intent to resist arrest and failing to cooperate with a preliminary test.

A 30-year-old woman from Grays has also been arrested in connection with the incident and has been released on bail.