An 18-year-old man who stole his brother's car has avoided an immediate custodial sentence because of his age.

Paul Michael Ford, of Snaefell Road in Willaston, admitted taking a vehicle without the owner's consent, driving without insurance or a licence and using an unlicensed vehicle.

The offences were committed on May 12 and August 21 this year.

Ford took his brother's car, the licence of which had expired in 2006, and drove it on his provisional, which had expired last year.

High Bailiff Michael Moyle told him the only reason he wasn't going to prison for a long time was his age, adding he was entitled to one final chance, despite his previous convictions.

Mr Moyle gave Ford a six month prison sentence, suspended for two years and imposed a two-year supervision order, with a condition he attend the PEPS programme.

He also banned him from driving for two years and ordered him to retake his test.