A BANNED driver who killed a Dorset teenager failed to appear for his latest court appearance.

James Boffey, 22, was due to be sentenced at Liverpool Magistrates' Court for driving while disqualified and without insurance.

The serial offender, who has been banned from driving four times despite never having a licence, was being followed by police last August when he tried to fool officers.

As he pulled into a lay-by, Boffey climbed through the space between the two front seats and sat in the rear of the car, still travelling at five to 10 miles per hour.

When the car stopped and officers opened the rear passenger door, Boffey immediately claimed: ''It wasn't me driving, boss.'' Jobless Boffey, of Fazakerley, Liverpool, tried to claim his friend had been at the wheel but was found guilty last month of driving while disqualified and without insurance.

Solicitor Patrick McLoughlin was unable to explain his client's absence at today's hearing and an arrest warrant was issued.

The case of Boffey originally caused outrage when his speeding car killed 15-year-old cyclist Anthony Wakelin in Wool.

Despite having a string of motoring convictions, he was fined £200 and banned from driving for two years after admitting careless driving.

He broke that ban within weeks, but again escaped jail, and a subsequent breach was punished with a three-year driving ban.