A car’s owner spotted another man driving his car and chased him, a court has been told.

Christopher James Christian, of Sumark Croft, Douglas, jumped out of the Mercedes but was caught by the owner and pinned down.

The 36-year-old pleaded guilty to taking a vehicle without consent but not guilty to disqualified driving and having no insurance.

Prosecuting advocate Roger Kane told the court that the owner of the Mercedes was driving home on the New Castletown Road in Douglas in another vehicle at the junction with Groves Road on August 25 at 10.20pm.

He then saw his Mercedes in the opposite lane with two men in it whom he didn’t recognise.

He pulled his car in front of the Mercedes so they were nose-to-nose and the two men got out and made off.

The owner chased Christian along Groves Road where he caught him and pinned him down after Christian fell through a hedge.

When interviewed by police Christian handed in a prepared statement denying that he was the driver.

Mr Kane said that the case was suitable to remain in summary court and a pre-trial review will be held for the not guilty pleas on November 11.

Sentencing for the taking without consent offence will take place after the outcome of any trial.

Bail continues with conditions to live at his home address, obey a curfew, not enter Harcroft Meadows in Douglas, not contact witnesses, and not leave the island without court consent.