A MAN has been jailed for driving at a store detective who saw him stealing items from his shop in Chelmsford city centre .

CCTV played in a court showed Wayne Mixture, 43, in a Range Rover speeding at the man in front of his car gesturing for him to stop.

Mixture is seen speeding up and the man is seen running in front of the car before he falls to the ground - and Mixture speeds off.

Mixture had earlier been seen in the Marks and Spencer store with two other men on April 13 last year, Chelmsford Crown Court heard.

He stole a belt before removing his sunglasses from his head and putting them in his pocket - he then steals another pair from a display rack.

Mixture then left the store without paying, but was followed by the security guard who asked him to come back to the shop.

Mixture swore at him and got into his vehicle, started the engine as the man went towards the vehicle.

Laura Kenyon, prosecuting, told how the man said to get out of the way or he would be run over.

Mixture's distinctive number plate - M1 XTU - helped police track him down and he was later arrested.

He admitted charges of stealing the belt and sunglasses, worth £40, and dangerous driving when he appeared in court. He was jailed for 12 months.

He was also banned from driving for three-and-a-half years and told to take an extended driving test.

The court heard Mixture, from Hall Lane, Sandon, was horrified when he was shown the CCTV and apologised for his behaviour.

Mixture faces separate charges of supplying of a Class B drug, being in possession of a stun gun and illegally abstracting electricity.

He is due back at Chelmsford Crown Court on Monday, May 12 in relation to the charges.