A MAN has been banned from driving after a being caught drug driving.

Michael Gray, 31, of East Hill Road, Ryde, was stopped by police for speeding on Smallbrook Lane and when officers approached the car, they could smell cannabis.

Gray admitted the charge as he appeared before Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court this morning (Friday).

For Gray, Barry Arnett said: "He was marginally going over the speed limit — that is why he was stopped.

"He was totally co-operative with police."

Mr Arnett also said that the driving ban would have a big impact on him as he would lose his job and potentially his accommodation, which is owned by his employer.

Isle of Wight magistrates acknowledged Gray's difficult circumstances, but banned him from driving for 12 months, fined him £219 and ordered him to pay a £30 surcharge and £85 court costs.