Danger driver's attempt to flee police - on bus!

A DANGEROUS driver who tried to escape from police by hopping on a bus has been brought to justice — thanks to a group of people waiting to board.

Police have expressed their thanks to Neath Valley residents for the information they provided which helped officers track down the driver of a speeding car.

Matthew Howells, from Cilfrew, later chose a public bus as a get-away vehicle, but did not get far before police caught up with him.

The 25-year-old appeared at Swansea Crown Court charged with dangerous driving, having no insurance, failure to surrender to custody and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence. He pleaded guilty to all offences.

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The incident happened in Glynneath Road, Resolven, where a red Peugeot car failed to stop for police.

The vehicle was seen to drive away in a dangerous manner.

Several people saw the car and contacted police.

Following a search and as a result of information from the public the vehicle was found abandoned in a lane behind Lletty Daffydd.

Passengers waiting for a bus then came to the officers' assistance by providing information that two men were seen boarding a public service bus travelling towards Tonna.

Police later stopped the vehicle at a bus stop at Tonna Uchaf and arrested two men aged 25 and 20.

Glynneath PC Martin Jenkins said: "The fast response from the residents of Resolven and Melincourt was invaluable and enabled us to apprehend and ultimately charge the driver whose manner of driving put the lives of Resolven residents in danger.

"On behalf of the neighbour- hood policing team I would like to send out a message of thanks to the community of Resolven and Melincourt for their speedy response and assistance in helping us to locate the vehicle and arrest the driver.

"Also a big thanks to the eagle- eyed passengers waiting at the bus stop who saw the two men board the bus to Tonna and who later passed on this vital piece of information.''

Howells was given a six-month sentence suspended for 12 months, ordered to carry out 100 hours of unpaid work, attend appointments with probation for 12 months and participate in the Thinking Skills Programme.

He has also been disqualified from driving for two and a half years and then must take his driving test again.

The second man involved was released with no further action.

gill.roberts@swwmedia.co.uk

01792 514626