Two teenagers have been warned they could face custody after they took a car and crashed it into a stream running alongside Lowestoft's new relief road.

Two teenagers have been warned they could face custody after they took a car and crashed it into a stream running alongside Lowestoft's new relief road.

Robert Willgoss and Oliver Bowles, both 19, had spent the night drinking before they stole a car to avoid having to walk home, Lowestoft Magistrates' Court heard yesterday.

Tess James, prosecuting, said the pair got into a Toyota Rav 4 parked in Beech Road, Carlton Colville, and found an ignition key in the ashtray. Willgoss, who was more than twice the legal drink-drive limit, drove away with Bowles.

Willgoss got as far as the roundabout connecting Bloodmoor Road to Tom Crisp Way when he lost control and crashed into the stream during the early hours of March 29.

Bowles, of Thornycroft Gardens, Carlton Colville, was arrested immediately but Willgoss, of Monarch Way, Carlton Colville, was found hiding in undergrowth. Willgoss was breathalysed and his reading was 85mcg of alcohol in 100ml of breath. The legal limit is 35.

Earlier, the pair broke into a Toyota Star, in Poplar Road, causing it to roll down a hill and crash into a signpost after letting off its handbrake. They also threw a rock through the window of a van and tried to steal a Vauxhall Cavalier.

Both defendants pleaded guilty to two charges of taking vehicles without consent, attempted theft and criminal damage. Willgoss also admitted drink-driving and driving without a licence and insurance.

Chairman of the bench Sue Walpole, who adjourned the case until May 7 for reports, said: “It is so serious that we must consider a custodial sentence.”

Rob Barley, representing both defendants, said alcohol had played its part in the offences.