Citroen drink driver caught after tailgating in Castle Street

Daniel Smith appeared at Worcester Magistrates Court on Thursday, (January 27), and was given a lengthy driving ban. 

The 24-year-old, of Martingale Close, Bromsgrove, admitted driving a vehicle when his alcohol level was above the limit. 

Fatima Yasmin, prosecuting, said police were on mobile patrol in Worcester on January 7 this year when Smith's Citroen came to their attention. 

COURT: Daniel Smith leaving Worcester Magistrates Court (Image: Sam Greenway/Newsquest)

The prosecutor said Smith was driving too close to the car in front as they were driving along Castle Street, Worcester. 

Miss Yasmin said the car was stopped in White Ladies Walk for officers to speak to him about his manner of driving but due to him smelling of alcohol if was asked to take a roadside breathalyser test, which he failed. 

After arrest and being taken to the police station, Smith's evidential sample recorded was 68mcg in 100ml of breath - the legal limit being 35mcg.

Smith, representing himself in the case, was asked by the court clerk if he had anything to say. 

"I'm sorry, it won't happen again," the defendant replied. 

COURT: Smith appeared at Worcester Magistrates Court

Smith told the court he had two jobs working as an engineer and at Keystones Cocktail Club. 

Asked what impact a ban would have on his employment Smith said: "My father can drive me to work". 

After magistrates' deliberations Ian Latimer, chairman of the bench, announced Smith was receiving a 17-month driving ban. 

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Smith was offered the chance to do the drink-drive awareness course which, if he successfully completes, will reduce the ban by 17 weeks.

Mr Latimer added: "You cannot drive at all now, do you understand?"

"Yes," Smith replied. 

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"If you drive you will be committing a serious offence, which can lead to custody."

Smith was fined £600 and ordered to pay costs of £135 and victim surcharge of £240.

Magistrates ordered the £975 total be paid in full within 28 days after Smith told them he would able to afford to do that.

The chairman warned if he didn't pay the courts could come after him.