Jimmy
24-10-2003 12:40:15
A university student who admitted impersonating comedy character Frank Spencer on police airwaves using an officer's radio has escaped a jail sentence.
Nathan Stack, 21, interrupted police frequencies in the Worthing area with catchphrases memorised from the BBC TV comedy Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em.
He pleaded guilty on 24 September to charges of theft, after finding the radio at a filling station, and sending false messages under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949.
Stack, of York Gardens, in Littlehampton, was due to be sentenced at Worthing Magistrates court on Tuesday, but failed to turn up.
On Friday, after appearing at the court, he was ordered to carry out 160 hours of community service.
Stack apologised for his actions and said he had been "stupid".
During his trial, he admitted using catchphrases including "Ooh Betty" and lines such as "Goodbye little fairies I must leave on the double, I would like to stay for one more day but I'm in a spot of trouble".
Stack was caught after his car was stopped by police on suspicion of speeding and he said "Can I help you officer?" in a voice impersonating Frank Spencer.
The traffic officer recognised the voice - and arrested Stack after a search of his car uncovered the radio beneath a seat.
Nathan Stack, 21, interrupted police frequencies in the Worthing area with catchphrases memorised from the BBC TV comedy Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em.
He pleaded guilty on 24 September to charges of theft, after finding the radio at a filling station, and sending false messages under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949.
Stack, of York Gardens, in Littlehampton, was due to be sentenced at Worthing Magistrates court on Tuesday, but failed to turn up.
On Friday, after appearing at the court, he was ordered to carry out 160 hours of community service.
Stack apologised for his actions and said he had been "stupid".
During his trial, he admitted using catchphrases including "Ooh Betty" and lines such as "Goodbye little fairies I must leave on the double, I would like to stay for one more day but I'm in a spot of trouble".
Stack was caught after his car was stopped by police on suspicion of speeding and he said "Can I help you officer?" in a voice impersonating Frank Spencer.
The traffic officer recognised the voice - and arrested Stack after a search of his car uncovered the radio beneath a seat.
