A drink driver has been jailed and banned from driving after a collision in which a police officer was injured.

Mark Smithson, 31, of Ditchfield Road, Hoddeson was driving a silver Mercedes ML270 when he failed to stop for police in High Laver, Ongar on March 22, 2015.

In an attempt to escape officers, he rammed a police car and knocked two officers to the ground.

Smithson sped off but was pursued and arrested after a search involving the police helicopter.

An officer suffered a hand injury and was taken to hospital for treatment.

Unemployed Smithson appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court on April 14, 2015 where he pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, driving whilst disqualified and drink driving.

He was jailed for 20 months and disqualified from driving for four years.

Investigating officer Pc Bradley Hall said “Drink-driving is totally unacceptable and we will take action against anyone who we are told is on the roads while under the influence.

“Fortunately in this instance, our officers were able to catch Smithson before he seriously hurt someone. If you see someone driving who you think is over the limit, tell us urgently so that we can take action.”