Drinker wrong side of road

A motorist drove the wrong way along a busy dual carriageway after downing a bottle of vodka.

Stephen Williams put lives in danger, almost caused a crash on the A249 and drove over the Sheppey Crossing the wrong way.

Only the actions of skilled AA driver Lee Cox prevented the 60-year-old former taxi driver causing a horrendous pile-up.

Mr Cox drove alongside the Ford Focus with his yellow lights on to warn other motorists as Williams continued on his way, oblivious to the chaos he was creating.

It came to an end when he veered off the road at Iwade and he was arrested.

Maidstone Crown Court heard Williams, of Mockett Court in Frederick Street, Sittingbourne, drank the bottle of vodka while visiting a friend on Good Friday, March 25.

He then set off in the early evening, driving over the Sheppey Crossing the wrong way.

Prosecutor Robert De Banzie said police received a flood of calls about 6.30pm from other shocked drivers who saw him.

Mr Cox provided a protective escort and kept up a running commentary with police to report what was happening.

Williams was jailed for 12 months after admitting dangerous driving and failing to provide a breath specimen.

He was banned from driving for three years.

Craig Evans, defending, said Williams had suffered an accident that had led to post traumatic stress disorder and alcohol problems.

Williams will have to take an extended test should his licence be returned.