A MOTORIST has appeared in court accused of reaching speeds of up to 100mph in a 30mph limit.

Ian Giddy is accused of dangerous driving after becoming involved in a high speed police chase in Layer Road and Lordswood Road, Colchester, in May.

During a short hearing at Colchester Magistrates’ Court, Catherine Houghton, prosecuting, alleged Giddy had gone way over the speed limit.

“The BMW the defendant was driving came to police’s attention having pulled out in front of them,” she said.

“Another officer who was an advanced driver was called, initiated a pursuit and turned on their blue lights.

“The car initially accelerated up to 60mph and then up to 100mph in a 30mph restricted area.

“It also went over two mini roundabouts without slowing.

“He carried on driving at 80mph.”

The bench declined jurisdiction of the case, saying the case was too serious for them to deal with.

No plea was entered.

Giddy has moved to Melbourne, Australia, from his previous home in Colchester since the incident but flew back to the UK for his court appearance.

The 32-year-old previously lived in Beaconsfield Avenue.

He was granted unconditional bail meaning he has permission to return to Australia but must be back in the country for his next hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court on March 17.

Chairman of the bench Martin Stuchfield formally agreed the case was too serious to be heard by magistrates.

“This is beyond the jurisdiction of the lower court.

“This is because of the facts presented by the Crown Prosecution Service which says you were subject to a police pursuit in a built up area where there is a 30mph limit and you were allegedly driving at 100mph.

“For those reasons we cannot deal with it at the magistrates’ court and are sending it to Chelmsford Crown Court.

“We do not consider you a flight risk and are granting you unconditional bail.”

A charge of failing to stop when required by a police officer was dropped.

The court heard it had not been brought before the court within the required time period.