A DRUG addict who tried to break into a car at a steam rally was photographed by a man as he walked off, Worcester Crown Court was told.

Keiran Goldingay then tried to snatch a woman's handbag but was challenged by her husband, said Nicolas Cartwright, prosecuting.

The witness who took the picture of 26-year-old Goldingay identified him to police called to the scene and he was arrested.

But on the way to Worcester police station he leapt from the patrol car at traffic lights and was on the run for six months.

Goldingay, of St Paul's Street, Worcester, admitted attempted theft, vehicle interference and escaping from lawful custody.

Sentencing him to a two-year community rehabilitation order, Recorder John Price said it was a drunken spree but the defendant had already served three-and-a-half months in custody.

He added that trying to take a woman's handbag was very upsetting for the victim.

Mr Cartwright said Goldingay, who had a string of previous convictions, tried to get into a Ford Montego at a steam rally in Welland, near Malvern, using a screwdriver.

He attempted to break the steering lock with his foot but was then photographed. He later told police he intended to steal the car.

Adam Western, defending, said he had been an £80-a-day heroin addict but had made efforts on remand to kick drugs.

On the day of the rally he was drunk and was with a group of other drunken men.