Worcester Warrior Joe Carlisle has been banned from driving for 20 months.

The professional rugby player appeared before Worcester Magistrates Court this morning, where he admitted driving with excess alcohol.

Carlisle, who lives in Cheltenham, was breathalysed following a minor accident near the club's Sixways ground just before 8am on Thursday, March 14.

He was found to have 83mcg of alcohol in 100ml of breath - the legal limit is 35mcg.

The 25-year-old fly-half was banned for 20 months, fined £500 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £50 surcharge.

Following sentencing chairman of the bench, Simon Egerton, said: "The bench is somewhat disappointed by the example that has been set."

Kerry Lovegrove, prosecuting, said police received a call at 7.55am on March 14 from a fellow driver who said Carlisle had just driven into the rear of her while at a red traffic light a junction six.

There was a minor bump but the driver said she could smell alcohol when they were exchanging details.

Miss Lovegrove said the driver gave police details of the male and enquiries were made which led to police to locate Carlisle and carry out a road side breath test.

He was arrested and taken to Worcester Police Station where he fully admitted there had been a minor traffic collision and he was over the limit.

Mark Haslam, defending, said the incident was a "classic case of the morning after".

Mr Haslam said Carlisle had been at a social the night before where he had drunk a couple of drinks.

He said: "He had six hours sleep , had breakfast and was driving to work.

"He was involved in a very minor accident, where he bumped into the car in front. He did everything right thereafter.

"He has drawn her attention to his state and the police came to his place of work.

"He's going to learn a lesson. He's a young man seeking to make his way in a competitive environment.

"There will also be consequences as far as his employers are concerned."

Sixways academy graduate Carlisle will be leaving Worcester at the end of this season after eight years with the club, having signed for Warriors’ Aviva Premiership rivals Wasps.

A spokesman for Worcester Warriors has declined to comment.