A MAN from Saltney whose car hit a fence has been banned from driving.

Samuel Ashbrook, 24, of Henry Wood Court, pleaded guilty at the first opportunity to drink-driving on the night of December 15, 2018.

Appearing at Chester Magistrates Court on Friday, May 17, Ashbrook was banned from driving for 14 months.

Prosecuting, Natalie Cassidy said it was at 11.50pm when a witness had reported to police a car on Queen's Park Road had hit some railings, and believed the motorist was a drink-driver.

Ashbrook was found next to his Vauxhall Corsa on Circular Drive and gave a positive roadside breath test.

While en route to custody, Ashbrook told officers: "I had three pints, that's it, I have let my wife down. I hit the fence, I have made such a f***ing mistake."

At the station, breath test readings gave differing results so a blood test was taken which showed Ashbrook had 127 milligrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood, compared to the legal limit of 80.

Ashbrook was of previous good character.

Defending, Antoszkiw said there were significant statements made by Ashbrook while being taken to custody, as he knew he had done wrong.

He repaired cars and would be able to continue that role despite the driving ban.

Magistrates banned Ashbrook from driving for 14 months and offered him the drink-drive referral course which would reduce his ban by a quarter.

He was fined £185 and told to pay £85 court costs and a £30 victim surcharge.