Lewis, 58, from Goole, pleaded guilty to shoplifting, dangerous driving and driving while disqualified and without insurance.

Dramatic CCTV footage captured Alan Lewis, 58, driving directly into the man after stealing nearly £900 worth of stock from Mainsgill Farmshop in Richmond, North Yorkshire, on Saturday, 23 November 2024.

It shows the employee being carried away on the bonnet of the Vauxhall Corsa.  The footage has been viewed millions of times online.

On Friday at York Crown Court, his actions were described by a judge as “utterly despicable".

The court heard he had 33 previous convictions, many for driving offences.

The judge, Recorder Peter Makepeace KC, paid tribute to the bravery of the staff member, telling Lewis: “He is in stark contrast to you... he should be commended by the court for his bravery.”

Lewis was jailed for 18 months and banned from driving for two years and seven months.

The shop confirmed the employee was "shaken up" but not injured.