Drink-driver admitted to 'big mistake'

Burnley magistrates heard how Lorenas Lesota (26) was caught just after midnight when police were called to Every Street, Nelson.

Lesota told officers: "Yes, I have been drinking and I don't have a full UK driving licence." He blew 71 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath when tested. The legal limit is 35.

Lesota, of Forest Street, Nelson, admitted driving with excess alcohol, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence and no insurance. The defendant had one previous conviction, but no "like offences" on his record.

Lesota, who was not represented by a solicitor, told the hearing: "I'm really sorry for that. It was a big mistake." He was fined £230, with £85 costs and a £30 victim surcharge and was banned for 20 months.