Speeding, uninsured student making 77-mile journey for 'change of scenery' has car seized

A student who was driving 77 miles from Sheffield to Liverpool for a “change of scenery” despite coronavirus lockdown rules has had his car seized.

The unnamed driver, who only had a provisional licence and was effectively motoring without insurance, was travelling on the M62 with a fellow student when officers found him in lane three doing 88mph.

When told to pull over, he stopped in the running lane – which North West Motorway Police said “certainly caused a panic moment”.

A spokesperson added: “When safely on the hard shoulder, we then find two bald tyres.

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“And he only has a provisional driving licence, he was picking his friend up from Sheffield to go to Liverpool, apparently for a change of scenery!”

Lockdown rules for England say you should only leave the house if you have a reasonable excuse.

The government says there are only limited reasons to travel outside your area, including work, education or visiting a support bubble.

The driver has been reported for excess speed, inconsiderate driving, two bald tyres, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, no insurance – because any policy he has will be invalid – and breaching coronavirus restrictions.

The passenger will also be reported for breaching restrictions and the vehicle was seized.

“Sometimes things just roll down hill for some people despite it being so easily avoidable,” North West Motorway Police said.

It added: “Stay at home, and all of this would have been avoided.

“Absolutely not acceptable.”