Paul McMullen, 29, of Romford, Essex, sped dangerously through Leamington town centre after he and another man forced open three unstaffed tills and stole £2,400 from Marks and Spencer in the Parade last year.

When police blocked the men in Gallows Hill, Warwick, as they headed towards the M40, McMullen reversed into Pc Craig Pearson, knocking the officer unconscious.

He also caused minor injuries to Pc Scott Caswell before escaping on foot.

McMullen was caught nearby, and at Warwick Crown Court last week he pleaded guilty to charges of theft, dangerous driving, driving while disqualified and two charges of assault.

He denied stealing the car, a Peugeot Coupe which had been taken two months earlier, but admitted to receiving it.

At the request of Jalil Asif, defending, the case was adjourned for a pre-sentence report to be prepared on McMullen.

McMullen was remanded in custody and recorder Lynn Tayton QC warned him: "You can expect a custodial sentence as far as I can see.

"The report will be of assistance only as to length."