KNOWN to the police, a convicted criminal attracted even more attention when he tried to disguise himself with pink sunglasses and a scarf wrapped around his head.

The Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court heard today (Friday) that officers were not fooled, and followed Ricardo Silva through Ryde until he stopped his car at West Street — and admitted he was driving while disqualified.

One of the officers said: "Ricardo, how are you?" after he stopped his Peugeot 206 on October 11. To which Silva replied: "It's not good, is it?" said Richard Withey, prosecuting.

Silva, 32, a self-employed motor trader of St Paul's Avenue, Shanklin, pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified, and without insurance or an MOT certificate.

"He looked suspicious, and was trying to hide his identity. The officers followed the vehicle. They had recognised him, but were not aware he was disqualified," said Mr Withey.

Silva was given a 24-month driving ban in August. A blood test, taken after he was involved in a traffic accident, revealed he had been drug driving.

Defending, Henry Farley said his client was 'quite a vulnerable person' who had led an unsettled lifestyle and suffered an 'annus horribilis.'

He had been diagnosed with a brain cyst, badly beaten in a violent assault and had to move out of his parents' home after arguing with them, said Mr Farley.

He found himself homeless, staying with friends and in hotels, before ending up at a St Helens caravan park — the kind that 'allowed all sorts of people in,' he said.

On the day in question, Mr Farley said Silva's phone ran out of battery and he 'stupidly' drove to Ryde to charge it.

Magistrates sentenced Silva to six weeks inprison, suspended for 12 months, and added six points to his licence.

The existing community order, which includes a rehabilitation requirement and unpaid work, will continue.

He was ordered to pay £85 in costs and a £115 surcharge.