POLICE had to make a roadblock to stop a drug user trying to get away from pursuing police patrols, a court heard.

Jamie Hopkins (30), of Broadoak, Bury, admitted he drove without due care and without documents, and was also in possession of heroin.

Mrs Jacqueline Stott, prosecuting, said police had seen Hopkins in a vehicle and started to follow. Other patrols had joined in, and emergency equipment had been activated. Hopkins refused to stop and sped down Topping Fold Road, heading towards Rochdale Old Road.

Hopkins drove in the direction of a police van which had to swerve out of the way to avoid a collision. Police manoeuvred a vehicle block across the carriageway and Hopkins was forced to stop. He was then arrested. A search of his home revealed a class A drug and drugs paraphernalia.

When interviewed, Hopkins said the drugs were for his own use and he had driven away from the police because he was nervous.

Mr Shabbir Khattak, defending, said Hopkins had been involved in the drugs culture some time ago and had been to prison, which the defendant felt had helped to wean him off drugs. He was now using methadone and was on his way to get his medication when the police arrived. The drugs found at Hopkins home were a small quantity, worth about £3, and consistent with personal use. There was no evidence he was supplying drugs. Bury magistrates ordered reports and Hopkins, who was granted bail, will return to court to be sentenced on January 26.