Driver sentenced after tractor ploughed into homes

A drug-fuelled driver who crashed into a tractor pulling a large tanker causing it to plough through two terraced homes has been sentenced.

Matthew Cumpsty, 52, admitted driving through a red light and crashing his silver Mercedes into the JCB tractor on the A51 Vicars Cross Road in Chester on 1 April.

He was arrested at the scene and a toxicology report later revealed he had tested positive for cocaine.

Cumpsty, of Chester, admitted drug-driving and dangerous driving and was handed a 12-month community order, including 200 hours of unpaid work at Chester Magistrates' Court.

The crash caused the tractor to veer off path and crash into nearby houses

Cheshire Police has shared dramatic footage of the crash, which happened at about 06:30 BST.

The impact caused the tractor to veer off course and crash into nearby homes, causing serious damage.

None of the residents were hurt but some were left unable to go home in just their pyjamas with nowhere to stay.

PC Richard Phillips said while Cumpsty had shown remorse for his actions, it was "pure chance that nobody suffered any serious injuries".

He said all the disruption to families and commuters had come from "one bad decision to get behind the wheel while under the influence".

Cumpsty was also banned from driving for 16 months and ordered to pay £85 costs and £114 surcharge.