A policeman is facing the sack after being convicted of drink-driving.

Magistrates heard that Pc Timothy Dunning, of Milton-under-Wychwood, was followed for 15 minutes before officers, using blue lights and sirens, were able to stop him. Dunning, who was more than twice the legal drink driving limit, initially gave a false name.

Ruth Jackson, prosecuting at Reading, said police started following a white van travelling at an excessive speed in the early hours of March 16, 2006. There was a lengthy pursuit and when the van pulled over, the driver was unsteady on his feet and appeared to be drunk.

Dunning admitted not giving his correct name, "to buy time" before talking to a lawyer. He disputed the breath test reading and said correct procedures had not been followed.

He was banned from driving for 20 months, and fined £600 with £625 costs.

Senior officers are due to meet to discuss Dunning's fate.