A TEENAGER driver broke his back when he crashed his car into a ditch just a week after passing his test. And his 14-year-old female passenger also suffered serious injuries, including a fractured vertebra, a broken pelvis, a broken nose and a broken wris

A TEENAGER driver broke his back when he crashed his car into a ditch just a week after passing his test.

And his 14-year-old female passenger also suffered serious injuries, including a fractured vertebra, a broken pelvis, a broken nose and a broken wrist.

At Ely youth court on Thursday, the 17-year-old driver from Haddenham admitted driving without due care and attention along Pools Road at Grunty Fen on January 11.

"The driver had tried to overtake his friend in a car in front of him, that car was driven by another young boy" said prosecutor Francesca Devine. "The car clipped the kerb and went into a ditch."

Sending his guilty plea into the court by letter, the teenager said: "I feel inexperience played a part in the accident. I had only passed my test the week before."

Apologising for any inconvenience caused, the youngster said he was suffering from a fractured spine, and his parents were supporting him.

He was fined £200 with £35 costs and a £15 surcharge. Eight points were endorsed on his licence.