Ford driver Marcus Hill caught drink driving in Tunnel Hill, Upton

Marcus Hill of Sedge Close, Worcester, appeared at Worcester Magistrates Court to admit his latest offence on Thursday, (October 19).

Conrad Lisk, prosecuting, said police spoke to Hill who was sitting behind the wheel of a Ford Focus with the engine on in Tunnel Hill, Upton, on October 1. 

"He was fairly intoxicated," the prosecutor said. 

"There was a strong smell of alcohol, he was unsteady on his feet, slurring his speech."

COURT: Marcus Hill leaving Worcester Magistrates Court (Image: Sam Greenway/Newsquest)

The prosecutor said Hill, formerly of Minge Lane, Upton, accepted he had been driving the car immediately telling officers he suffered from alcoholism. 

After failing a roadside breathalyser test Hill was taken to the station where the evidential sample given was 75mcg in 100ml of breath - the legal limit being 35mcg. 

Mr Lisk added Hill's offence was aggravated by it being his second offence of drink driving, the previous taking place in 2021 when he was banned for 14 months.

Nick Roberts, defending Hill, said the defendant had been out with his girlfriend in Upton and had meant to stay at hers, but after a falling out he decided to get in his car. 

Mr Roberts said Hill was a member of the regiment but was on sabbatical. 

COURT: Hill's case was heard at Worcester Magistrates Court

The solicitor told the court as Hill drove tanks on public roads it would be unclear if the inevitable ban would mean he could return to the army job.

Mr Roberts said: "This is something he will need to take up (with them)."

Hill had been dealing with grief following the death of a family member through misusing alcohol at the time of the offence.

Mr Roberts added the defendant was now getting help. 

Simon Egerton, chairman of the magistrates bench, said: "The circumstances are concerning to the bench, obviously this is your second offence."

Hill was disqualified from driving for 38 months. 

He was fined £345 and ordered to pay costs of £135, victim surcharge of £138.

Hill's offer to pay the £618 total at a rate of £25 a week was accepted by magistrates.