A MAN who drove off after giving his name to a police officer was later tracked down by a police dog.

Blackburn magistrates heard Junaid Ali had no licence and no insurance to drive his dad's car.

And he also had a small quantity of cannabis in his pocket when he was arrested.

Ali, 23, of Roman Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to failing to stop when required by a police officer, possession of cannabis, and driving without insurance or licence. He was given a conditional discharge for 12 months, fined £120 with £34 victim surcharge and banned from driving for 12 months.

Leigh Morgan, prosecuting, carrying out routine checks saw a Ford Fiesta parked up. He drove up next to it and spoke to the driver.

"He provided his details before driving off at speed," said Ms Leigh.

"The officer illuminated his lights and commenced a pursuit but lost sight of the vehicle.

"A member of the public directed him onto an industrial estate where he found the car parked up, locked and secure."

A police dog handler was called in and 15 minutes later he reported that Ali had been detained nearby.

"When he was searched a small amount of cannabis was found on him," said Ms Leigh.

Gafhar Khan, defending, said his client had never been to the police station before and in his own words never wanted to go back again

"He had been to visit his grandma on her death bed and as he put it he wanted a spliff," said Mr Khan.

"He had bought £5 worth of cannabis when the police officer pulled up alongside him."