A man who stole a double decker bus and drove it through a town whilst under the influence of alcohol has been jailed for 21 months.

On Thursday July 7, at around 9.50pm Deepak Malhotra, 35, of Edgware Road, London, forced his way onto an empty bus at Watford bus station in Woodford Road.

Malhotra caused thousands of pounds worth of damage whilst under the influence of alcohol as he drove three miles around the town.

READ MORE: Double decker bus stolen from Watford Junction

He eventually stopped the bus in Bushey Mill Lane and attempted to leave. He was arrested nearby in St Albans Road.

Borehamwood Times:

Deepak Malhotra

Malhotra was jailed for 21 months for aggravated vehicle taking, driving whilst disqualified and drink driving at Harrow Crown Court on October 19.

He was also banned from driving for three years and must retake his driving test before regaining his licence. He had pleaded guilt to the offences at an earlier hearing.

Borehamwood Times:

Borehamwood Times:

He caused thousands of pounds worth of damage

Investigating officer PC Mark Logan said: “Malhotra caused thousands of pounds worth of damage as he dangerously drove around the streets of Watford and it is only pure luck that no one was injured during his reckless joyride.

“He was both under the influence of alcohol and banned from driving at the time of the offence.

“The bus was seen to mount kerbs, collide with a road sign and railings, jump a red light forcing motorists to brake to avoid hitting the double decker and collide with two vehicles causing extensive damage.”