AN EAST Cowes drink-driver twice over the limit told police he did not consume alcohol because of his religion.

Thabani Madosa, of Hawthorn Meadows, appeared before the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court last Tuesday (November 23).

The 41-year-old admitted drink driving in Ryde, on November 11.

Prosecutor, Ann Smout, said police officers had been on duty at approximately 1am, in a van on Ryde Esplanade.

She said Madosa drove past them, and they noted his car had no lights on, and he was swerving and turning erratically.

Mrs Smout said police followed Madosa, and when he failed to move on at a green light, he was pulled over.

The court heard Madosa told officers he had not been drinking because of his religion, but he had glassy eyes and smelt of alcohol.

Police also noted the passenger in his car ­— his wife ­— had also been drinking.

Mrs Smout said Madosa provided a breath-alcohol reading of 72 at the roadside, and the same again at the police station.

The legal limit is 35.

She said he pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity and was of previous good character.

Barry Arnett, defending, said Madosa was a qualified chartered accountant who had fasted for around 31 days prior to the offence.

He said minor damage had been caused to the car, and Madosa made an error in judgement by moving it.

Mr Arnett said his wife had been on the phone arranging a taxi to take them home, and Madosa was genuinely sorry for what happened.

The court heard Madosa did not realise he was driving without his lights on.

Madosa was fined £120 and disqualified from driving for 18 months.

He was ordered to pay costs of £85 and a £34 surcharge.