A TEENAGER who took his dad's car without permission tried to hide from police behind a petrol station.
Bolton Magistrates' Court heard how Hamada Haji, aged 18, of Brocksby Chase, Bolton, only had a provisional driving licence when, on July 31, he used the Seat Leon to give his pals a lift a midday.
But Adam Bonney, prosecuting, told how officers had spotted the driver attempting to hide the vehicle at the Shell petrol station on Wigan Road and then followed him, stopping the car on Victoria Road.
When asked his name Haji initially told them it was Yaya Hussain Sharif, but police became suspicious when he repeatedly gave a wrong date of birth.
"The defendant then stated his true identity," said Mr Bonney.
Haji's father arrived on the scene and confirmed he had not allowed his son to drive the car.
Haji pleaded guilty to taking a vehicle without consent, obstructing police, not having a full licence and no insurance.
Phillip Axon, defending, said the plumbing student had been keen to pass his driving test but it had been cancelled due to coronavirus restrictions.
"When his friends wanted a lift he stupidly gave in to peer pressure," said Mr Axon.
"All of this is more youthful stupidity rather than ingrained criminality."
Haji was banned from holding a licence for 12 months, ordered to do 80 hours of unpaid work and must pay £175 in costs and charges.
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