Probation for man in Downing St crash

A man who drove straight at the gates of Downing Streetwas spared prison yesterdayand sentenced to three years' probation, conditional on his getting medical treatment.

A man who drove straight at the gates of Downing Streetwas spared prison yesterdayand sentenced to three years' probation, conditional on his getting medical treatment.

Stephen Bonnett, 27, an engineer from Chelmsford, Essex, who suffered from delusions that he was to be the next prime minister, drove his car into the gates at 30mph on 15 January, causing £20,000 damage and injuring Urzula Webster, 39. Mrs Webster, an American tourist, suffered a double leg fracture after pushing her three sons out of the way and is still in a wheelchair.

Brendan Kelly QC, for the prosecution, told Southwark Crown Court that Bonnett had been experiencing a psychotic schizophrenic episode.

Judge Bathurst Norman said Bonnett had not had enough medication.

Bonnett, who was found not guilty last month of maliciously inflicting grievous bodily harm, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving. He will be treated at the Linden Centre, Broomsfield, Chelmsford.