A DRIVER who crashed into a lamppost while being chased by police, killing two of his friends, has been jailed.

Michael Cush was at the wheel when the Audi he had stolen in Stevenage was involved in a crash in Woolmer Green.

Passengers Cameron Nimmo, 20, and Karl Spencer, 25, both died as a result of their injuries following the crash in Great North Road during the early hours of Friday, November 2.

Cush, of Luke Place in Bedford, was sentenced to eight years in prison after admitting two counts of causing death by dangerous driving and aggravated vehicle taking.

The 27-year-old was also disqualified from driving for 10 years, effective from Thursday’s sentencing at St Albans Crown Court.

Jon Boutcher, assistant chief constable for Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Joint Protective Services, said: “Our thoughts are with the families of Cameron Nimmo and Karl Spencer at this sad time. I hope that the sentence passed today will help in some way to give them closure.

“Causing death by dangerous driving is an extremely serious offence and it is vital that those who commit this crime face justice.

“The sentences indicate the severity of Michael Cush’s actions and send out a strong message about the consequences of driving irresponsibly without due regard for the safety of those in your vehicle and other road users.”