A DRUG USER drove a young woman on a terrifying journey through the streets of Chester.

Christopher Michael Hutt, 44, of Chichester Street, Chester, picked up the girl outside the George and Dragon pub then became 'abusive and threatening'.

Brett Williamson, prosecuting, said: 'She was terrified and needed to get away from him.

'She ran from the car to the nearest house for safety, hoping someone would answer, but no-one did. He grabbed her by the arm and took her to the car. She was falling to the floor and crying for help - she gave up and had no strength left.'

Hutt then drove at speed out of Chester and told her he was going to drop her off somewhere on the motorway.

Mr Williamson added: 'She received a phone call and she cried for help, but the defendant tried to grab the phone and bit her hand.'

Onlookers called police, who arrested him as he drove back towards Chester.

Hutt pleaded guilty to affray but denied biting her or driving erratically.

Chester Crown Court heard reports the girl was now frightened of the night and of cars, and now has to sleep with her mother.

David Carney, defending, said: 'He is horrified and is genuinely upset by what he has done.'

Hutt was on amphetamines at the time but now no longer uses them.

Hutt was sentenced to 18 months minus the 83 days spent in remand, to serve half in prison and half on licence.