A DRINK driver was given credit for phoning police and handing himself in, after crashing his car.

Ethan David Barsdell, 26, of Green Lane, Shanklin, appeared at the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court on Tuesday and admitted driving with an alcohol level in his breath of 47 when the legal limit is 35, and criminal damage to a brick wall.

Vivian Ducie, prosecuting, said police attended an incident in the early hours of February 23, after a car had driven into a parked car, and damaged a wall, at Upton Road, Ryde.

The driver, later identified as Barsdell, left the scene, but later phoned police to admit his culpability and admit he had been drinking. He said he had had five pints before driving.

Barry Arnett, for Barsdell, said he was a young man of good character and in full-time employment.

It had been the end of a really miserable day and he had had a row with his girlfriend, effectively saying it was all over.

Mr Arnett said: "He drinks and has the foolish thought of going to McDonalds but did not really get very far before he crashes the car."

Presiding magistrate Fay Seabourne said the incident seemed to be a 'blip' for Barsdell and the bench would take into consideration the admission to police and full co-operation.

Barsdell was disqualified from driving for 12 months, fined £261 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £30 surcharge.

There was no separate penalty for the damage to the wall.

Don't forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.