THE first driver caught as part of Operation Holly — the Isle of Wight Police's Christmas crackdown on drink and drug drivers — has appeared in court.

Daniel McArthur, 34, of Bailey Close, Ryde, admitted driving while under the influence of drink on Lugley Street on December 2, when he appeared at the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court on Tuesday (December 17).

Ann Smout, prosecuting, said McArthur was stopped at 10.12am as his car was shown as having no tax, but an alcohol test showed he had an alcohol reading of 47 when the legal limit is 35.

Liz Miller, for McArthur, said he had been drinking with friends the night before and was giving them a lift in the morning, without realising he was still over the limit.

The vehicle was flagged as untaxed because McArthur had moved house and forgotten to change his details.

McArthur was fined £750 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £75 surcharge.

He was disqualified from driving for 12 months.

Operation Holly is set to target drivers on the Isle of Wight until January 1, in a crackdown on the destruction and distress caused by collisions involving those under the influence.

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