A CHARD man who drove dangerously through the town while disqualified has been sentenced to 23 months in prison.

The trial of Kyle Unsworth, 27, from Albert Road, Chard, was held yesterday at Taunton Crown Court.

Unsworth failed to make an appearance but was found guilty on three counts.

He was given 17 months in prison on the count of dangerous driving and was disqualified from driving for three years and 50 weeks.

He will have to undertake an extensive retest before getting his licence back.

Unsworth was given a further six months on the count of driving while disqualified to be served consecutively.

The 27-year-old was also sentenced to one month in prison for the possession of drugs to be served concurrently. This means he will serve a total of 23 months in prison.

The judge also ordered Unsworth to pay a victim surcharge of £100 and a forfeit of drugs has been ordered.

A warrant has been issued for Unsworth's arrest. When arrested, he will also be sentenced for failing to attend his court hearing.