A NEWPORT man decided to drive home, rather than accept a lift, and ended up in court for drink driving.

Mark James Taylor, 29, of Manor Crescent, admitted being over the limit on January 19 when he appeared at the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court on Tuesday.

Ann Smout, prosecuting, said Taylor was spotted by police when he left Newport High Street in his car, as it was just after midnight and he failed to put his lights on.

Officers followed him to Staplers Road and signalled for him to pull over.

He fully co-operated and said he had had 'a number of drinks' after playing football.

His girlfriend had offered to collect him, but he thought he was fine to drive.

A breath test revealed an alcohol reading of 63 when the legal limit is 35.

Barry Arnett, for Taylor, said the consequence of a driving ban was 'catastrophic' as he might not be able to get to his job, working shifts in Freshwater, without a car.

He was also the main breadwinner as he and his girlfriend had a five-week-old baby.

Mr Arnett said: "This moment of folly is going to cost him very dearly."

He was banned from driving for 17 months, fined £276 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £32 surcharge.

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