Judge Christopher Prince said many members of the public might think Matthew Wright deserved to go prison.

"But those people would not have seen the psychiatric reports or read what probation officers say about you," the judge told Wright.

"It is apparent you suffered brain damage from a road accident in 2007, and it would be a very hard person who did not think you deserved some compassion."

Durham Crown Court was told that Wright was more than three times the legal alcohol limit when he was seen to crash his Land Rover Discovery into a signpost on the A1086, near Shotton.

"About 15 minutes later the Discovery was seen doing about 60mph along the main runway of Shotton airfield, heading towards a landing aircraft," said Jane Mitford, prosecuting.

"Six parachutists had just jumped from the aircraft and were also making their descent."

The court heard that airfield staff Paul Moore, Andrew Kalinsky, Andrew Brumby and Trevor Garrett dashed towards the Discovery. "It had stopped by the time they arrived," Ms Mitford said. "It was obvious to them the driver was drunk.

"He also became aggressive and said he was looking for his dog."

Wright, 21, of Haywood Cottage, Salter's Lane, Shotton Colliery, admitted acting in a manner likely to endanger air traffic, entering a restricted area of an airport, and driving with excess alcohol, all on April 11 this year.

Jane Waugh, defending, said: "Mr Wright has responded well to psychiatric treatment, and the doctors say they can do further work with him.

"If he is successful in his efforts to cut down dramatically on his drinking, any risk of re-offending will be much reduced."

Judge Prince sentenced Wright to a two-year supervision order, on condition that he continues to have mental health treatment.He was banned from driving for 30 months.

Judicial commendations were issued to the four airfield staff.

"Their bravery and quick-thinking did much to avert a tragic loss of life," said the judge.