A drink-driver caught the attention of police while driving ‘erratically’ and nearly hitting the kerb.

Martin Watson, 37, was driving a white Kia Sportage on the Loop Road in Whitehaven, just after 11.30pm on November 25, Workington Magistrates’ Court heard.

Pamela Fee, prosecuting, said the vehicle caught the attention of police, with the driving described as ‘erratic’. The vehicle nearly hit the kerb three times.

The defendant had then turned right onto Inkerman Terrace and nearly hit the kerb again.

Police patrols were then called for an immediate response as it was ‘only a matter of time before there was a road traffic collision’, the court was told.

Watson was pulled over on Foxhouses Road and a number of passengers were in the vehicle with him, including a minor.

A roadside breath test showed he had 87mcg of alcohol in 100ml of breath. The legal limit is 35mcg.

At the police station, Watson gave a reading of 84mcg of alcohol in 100ml of breath.

The defendant, who was unrepresented in court, said: “I’m very sorry and shocked with myself. I have got three kids and a mortgage to provide for. I will learn from this mistake.”

Watson, of Meadow Road, Whitehaven, pleaded guilty to driving with alcohol level above the limit.

He was banned from driving for 22 months, to be reduced by 22 weeks, if he completes the drink drivers’ rehabilitation course.

Watson was fined £461 and must pay £85 costs and a £184 victim surcharge.

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