A drug driver sped through Sandown and Shanklin in a police chase, narrowly missing oncoming cars, because he "panicked" after officers attempted to pull him over.

Joseph Drew, of Avenue Road, Sandown appeared at the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court on Friday, April 14.

He pleaded guilty to drug driving, driving without due care and attention and failing to stop for police.

The court heard how Drew was travelling along The Broadway, Sandown on December 19, 2022, when police recognised him.

Officers had information that he may have had previous for drug use, and so followed him, Liz Miller, prosecuting, said.

After a brief stop to pick somebody up, Drew continued onto Newport Road where officers signalled for him to pull over.

The court heard how he turned around at ATS Euromaster and a police chase ensued.

Drew was clocked doing 65 to 70mph along Canteen Road, Whiteley Bank, Ms Miller said, forcing other vehicles to pull over.

He eventually came to a stop on Batts Road, Shanklin, where officers arrested him.

His blood results showed he had 2.1mg of a cannabis derivative in his system, the court heard. The legal limit is 2.

Defending, Barry Arnett, said the whole police pursuit lasted around 12 minutes.

He said Drew was "marginally" over the limit and he drove off because he "panicked" — something he admits he should not have done.

He said nothing unlawful was found on him.

Mr Arnett said the repercussions of the incident have been dire for Drew. He lost his job in the days after but has since secured new employment.

Drew's case was adjourned until May 12 to allow for a pre-sentence report to be prepared.

He was given an interim driving ban.