Jesus gets driving ban

A DRINK driver who told police he is Jesus has been banned from driving for 18 months.

Police spotted Ian Sparkes (27), of Oldham Road, Oldham driving dangerously in a white Ford Fiesta on St Mary’s Way, Oldham, in the early hours of July 2.

Oldham Magistrates heard Sparkes, a professional gambler, had been drinking and got into his friend’s car to buy food. Annabelle Hartley, prosecuting, explained: “He drove past a parked police car and when pursued he slowed but didn’t stop. Eventually he stopped and the officer asked him to get out, but he drove off at speed.”

The vehicle was found in Emmott Way, where Sparkes had driven over a roundabout and damaged both roundabout and car. Sparkes was seen walking across a nearby car park, unsteady on his feet. His speech was slurred. He was arrested.

At Ashton police station he refused to give a breath sample and asked for comment said “I’m Jesus”.

Sparkes pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen, driving dangerously, failing to stop, and driving without a licence or insurance.

As well as the 18-month ban he was sentenced to three months in prison, suspended for a year, and ordered to pay £345 in costs and charges. Sparkes must also do a driving awareness course.