Car damaged in Pallion

Police are appealing for information after a car was vandalised on Tanfield Street in Sunderland.

Between 6:05pm and 6:40pm on Wednesday February 6 a substance was poured over a car parked on the street causing considerable damage to the paintwork.

Officers are asking anyone that was in the area at the time and who may have seen anything suspicious to contact police on the 101 non-emergency number, or alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Children flee manic Millfield driver

A driver who led police on a dangerous 80mph chase which left children running to safety has appeared in court.

Newcastle Crown Court heard how Ryan Hellens’ potentially-deadly driving forced children playing in a Sunderland street to flee to safety.

Stuart Michie, prosecuting, told the court how on November 1 last year, Hellens drove a Suzuki Jimny 4X4 around the city.

Hellens, 22, drove the car down Hylton Road, Holborn Road and Front Road, in the South Hylton area of Sunderland.

Mr Michie told the court how Hellens led police on a three-minute chase at speeds of up to 80mph.

He said: “Children playing in the streets were having to run for safety.”

Hellens, of Ferndene Crescent, Millfield, pleaded guilty to a charge of dangerous driving.

The case was adjourned until later this month to allow for pre-sentence reports to be drawn up.

Hellens was released on unconditional bail until his next court appearance.

The judge, Recorder Tim Hirst, told him: “All of the sentencing options will be available when this case is sentenced.”

As first seen on the Sunderland Echo – http://www.sunderlandecho.com/news/crime/children-flee-manic-driver-on-road-1-4995963