Banned Burnley driver still hasn't taken extended test 12 years on

Burnley magistrates were told how Jason Gavin (29) was convicted of dangerous driving in 2006 and was not supposed to get behind the wheel until he passed an extended test. He hadn’t done so.

Gavin, who has a roofing and construction business, was rumbled when he was driving his father’s car, police saw him and found he wasn’t insured. It was then discovered he had been ordered off the road.

The defendant, who has 18 offences on his record, claimed he didn’t know he was still banned.

Mr Mark Williams (defending) told the hearing Gavin’s father had no idea his son was disqualified.

The solicitor added: “To be fair, the defendant didn’t realise he was disqualified from that ban 12 years earlier. He borrowed his father’s car and had gone on a short journey.

“He’s clearly not driving shortly after the disqualification was imposed. It’s 12 years after.”

Gavin, of Gill Street, Burnley, admitted driving while disqualified on Ighten Road, in the town and no insurance, on March 11th.

He was given a 12-month community order, with 80 hours unpaid work and received six points on his licence.

The defendant is still banned until he passes a test.