A man three times over the drink-driving limit stole an ambulance and sparked a police chase.

David Aleksandravicious, from Walton Bridge Road, Shepperton, pleaded guilty to drink-driving, taking a motor vehicle without the owners consent, obstructing an emergency worker, failure to stop, and driving without insurance and licence at Staines Magistrates' Court on May 20.

The 24-year-old had been out drinking with a friend when he came across a South East Coast Ambulance paramedic treating a man with a head injury.

The court heard the paramedic had parked in Walton High Street on Saturday, May 2, and left the keys in the ignition. He heard the car door shut and turned to see the vehicle being driven towards Walton Bridge Road with vital equipment still in it.

Police soon gave chase with four cars for more than two miles until a police block forced Aleksandravicious to come to a stop.

His defence told the court he was remorseful and the influence of alcohol had made him think the theft was funny.

Aleksandravicious was sentenced to three months in prison, suspended for one year. He was given 200 hours unpaid work, a 12 month community order, his licence endorsed and he was ordered to pay costs of £315.