'Suicidal' driver in 100mph crash

A suicidal driver from South Yorkshire deliberately drove into a crash barrier at 100mph, a court has been told.

Paul Knapton, 35, from Sheffield, was trying to kill himself at the wheel following an argument with his girlfriend, Chesterfield Magistrates' Court heard.

He deliberately drove his car into the central reservation on the Dronfield bypass, causing damage estimated at more than £3,000.

Knapton, of Tithe Barn Lane, Woodhouse, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving on 5 August, 2003.

If he had said nothing he would have faced a charge of careless driving but he was honest about his thoughts and feelings at that time. John Wilford, defending

Becky Mahon, prosecuting, said Knapton had told officers arriving at the scene that he had crashed on purpose.

She told the court: "Mr Knapton said he had smashed his car up and that he had wanted to top himself after having an argument with his girlfriend.

"He said he was doing 100mph and then turned the vehicle into the barrier.

"He said it wasn't an accident. The damage to the barrier totalled £3,139," Ms Mahon added.

John Wilford, defending, said his client was initially charged with causing criminal damage.

He said: "If he had said nothing he would have faced a charge of careless driving but he was honest about his thoughts and feelings at that time."

Mr Wilford added that Knapton had been prescribed anti-depressants after seeing his doctor.

Sentencing was adjourned until 1 December for a psychiatric report.