A HUSBAND caught speeding has escaped a driving ban because he is caring for his terminally ill wife.

Anthony Underhill, who admitted the offence, was not disqualified from driving after he was caught speeding in Martley Road, Broadheath.

Magistrates accepted the totter needed his licence to take her to hospital appointments and to the coast.

The 61-year-old was behind the wheel of a Peugeot clocked speeding on September 14 last year, breaking the 30mph speed limit.

Because of previous motoring offences he was at risk of a driving disqualification as a totter (12 penalty points or more) when the case was heard at Worcester Magistrates Court on Wednesday, June 14.

No totting disqualification was made because mitigating circumstances were identified.

Magistrates felt the ban would have an impact on his wife who is terminally ill.

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A court spokesperson said: "You are responsible for taking her to all her doctor's, hospital appointments and collect prescriptions which would be difficult to do on public transport.

"You also drive her to the coast for the benefit of the salt air.

"You would also lose your employment if you were to be disqualified and this would have an impact on your ability to pay for rent and other household expenses."

Underhill of  Hawford Avenue, Kidderminster, was fined £40, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £16 and costs of £110. A collection order was made, giving the courts extra powers to recover the money.

His driving record was endorsed with three points. The defendant's guilty plea was taken into account when imposing the sentence.