A DRIVER sparked a police chase when he overtook a line of traffic on a blind summit – then forced another motorist to swerve out of the way to avoid a crash.

James Kelly, 45, appeared in court last week after admitting a charge of dangerous driving on Rigg Road in Cumnock and along the B743 towards Muirkirk on July 10.

Ayr Sheriff Court heard Kelly had been spotted using his mobile phone at the wheel.

The procurator fiscal depute said: “At 5pm police officers were on mobile patrol driving south. They observed a white BMW.

“They observed the accused overtake a line of traffic at speed approaching a blind summit.

“Police put on their emergency lights and pursued the accused, who failed to stop.

“They observed him overtake another road user at a corner, causing a motor vehicle to swerve to avoid contact.”

“They requested assistance from colleagues at the time the vehicle was lost.

“Traffic officers observed the accused travelling at speed while in possession of a mobile phone.

“The accused was seen entering the carriageway on the opposing side.”

Kelly was eventually stopped and arrested at the roadside before being taken to Kilmarnock police office.

When Kelly, who was represented by defence solicitor Neil McPherson, appeared in court on November 17, Sheriff Mhairi MacTaggart deferred sentence for reports and imposed an interim disqualification.

Sheriff MacTaggart told Kelly: “It should not be lost on you how serious this is.”

Pleas of not guilty to five other charges were accepted by the Crown.

Kelly, of Gordon Street, Catrine, will return to court at a later date to be sentenced.