A DRINK driver from Andover who admitted to having a beer before driving has been banned from driving.

Charlie Lavery, of Lords Way, was driving a red Vauxhall Corsa on Viking Way, Andover, on June 25 when he was stopped by police.

It was found that he had 74 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

SEE ALSO: ‘She could have died’: Mother angry after e-scooter hit and run left daughter, 8, with broken leg

At Basingstoke Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, July 12 Lavery pleaded guilty to driving while over the legal alcohol limit.

The court heard how during a roadside breath test Lavery admitted to having a beer before he was stopped.

In mitigation, Lavery's lawyer Mr West said he was a man of “good character”.

He said: “Mr Lavery was driving a short distance from the town centre to his home, and he knows it was a stupid mistake on his part.”

READ MORE: Water company working with villages to protect environment as sewage removal works continue

The magistrates disqualified Lavery from driving for 17 months.

The 33-year-old was also handed a fine of £807, a victim surcharge of £323 and court costs of £85.

A message from the editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support.

Subscribing means you have unrestricted access to the latest news and reader rewards - all with an advertising-light website.

Don't take my word for it – subscribe here to see for yourself.

Looking to advertise an event? Then check out our free events guide.

Want to keep up with the latest news and join in the debate? You can find and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.