A MOTORIST fled the scene of a head on crash then lied to police saying his car had been stolen.Richard Lyddaman appeared before magistrates where he admitted failing to stop after the accident on the A1071 at Hintlesham, not reporting the crash and obstructing police.

A MOTORIST fled the scene of a head on crash then lied to police saying his car had been stolen.

Richard Lyddaman appeared before magistrates where he admitted failing to stop after the accident on the A1071 at Hintlesham, not reporting the crash and obstructing police.

Prosecutor Godfried Duah said Lyddaman, of Taylor Road, Hadleigh, was driving a Ford Mondeo car when he lost control of the vehicle as he cornered a bend.

The court heard he collided head-on with another vehicle travelling in the opposite direction. Mr Duah said: "Mr Lyddaman and a male passenger then ran from the scene."

The accident on May 23 left the female driver of the other vehicle with injuries to her shoulder and face. The impact also caused extensive damage to the front of her vehicle.

After police contacted the registered owner of the car, the court heard Mr Lyddaman tried to make contact with police.

Mr Duah said: "He said the vehicle was stolen on the 23 and 24, therefore obstructing a police constable." When questioned, Lyddaman admitted he was the driver of the car.

Representing himself the 20-year-old self employed fencer/ builder told South East Suffolk Magistrates he was in debt and could lose a his job if given a driving ban.

At the time of the accident he was going though a difficult time.

His grandmother was terminally ill in hospital and he split up with his girlfriend.

Lyddaman, who had six points on his licence before the court appearance, said: "It was stupid and I know I did wrong."

Bench chairman Nicholas Rigby gave him a six-month driving ban. He was fined £125 each for failing to stop and failing to report the accident. Lyddaman was also ordered to pay £70 prosecution costs.

No separate penalty was given for obstructing police.