Banned driver caught behind wheel on trip to Northwich

Brian Higham pleaded guilty at Chester Magistrates Court to driving while disqualified, driving without insurance, and possession of cocaine on Tuesday, November 29.

The 40-year-old, of Stirrup Field, Golborne, was caught driving a red Ford Focus on Gadbrook Road, Rudheath, despite being banned for drink-driving five months earlier.

He also had one wrap of cocaine in his possession.

Defending, Richard Sibeon explained that Higham, who works as a groundsman, was expecting a lift to work, but his lift did now show up.

Worried he would lose his job if he turned up late, he chose to drive himself.

The court heard Higham leads a ‘pro-social’ life, does not drink heavily, works up to six days a week, and only uses cocaine socially.

Mr Sibeon added although a custodial sentence was an option for magistrates, this would lead Higham to lose his home, his job, and access to his son.

Higham was sentenced to a 12-month community order, to include 80 hours unpaid work, and his cocaine was destroyed.

He also received six points on his driving licence, and was ordered to pay £120 costs and a £114 surcharge.

Chairman of magistrates, John Lawson, said: "It seems that a custodial sentence is the last thing you need at this moment in time.

"Do not do this again, because if you do, you will certainly get one."