A DRINK driver who fled the scene of a crash in Ventnor, only to be found hiding in a garden by a police dog, has been banned from the road.

Sheraz Hussain, of Mill Road, Gillingham, Kent, appeared before the Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (July 20).

The 25-year-old admitted drink driving, on July 4.

Prosecutor, Liz Miller, told the court police received a call from a retired police officer requesting they attend a road traffic collision on Trinity Road in Ventnor.

She said the crash involved a Southern Vectis bus and a Ford Focus. No injuries were sustained, but damaged had been caused to both vehicles.

Ms Miller told the bench two males were seen to leave the vehicle on foot, and Hussain was identified as the man leaving the driver’s seat.

She said Hussain was seen to run off toward Trinity Church, and was found hiding in a garden by a police dog following a search.

She said Hussain claimed his car had been stolen, and he was not the driver.

He was arrested and taken to the police station, where he provided an alcohol breath reading of 74 microgrammes. The legal drink-drive limit is 35.

Ms Miller said Hussain gave no-comment answers in interview, but the other male ­— Hussain’s cousin – was also located, and it was confirmed Hussain was the driver of the vehicle.

Simon Collingham, defending, said Hussain was deeply remorseful and ashamed of his behaviour.

He said the reason for his actions following the collision was that he was scared and panicked.

Mr Collingham said Hussain and his cousin had consumed some beers in a restaurant before proceeding to drive to Newport.

He said his behaviour was completely out of character, but he accepted full responsibility, and was keen to learn from the experience.

The court heard Hussain was a self-employed scaffolder and father of three with no previous convictions.

Hussain was given a 20-month driving ban and fined £461.

He was ordered to pay costs of £85 and a £46 surcharge.