A MOTORIST got behind the wheel of his car to pick up a takeaway after having a few beers – because he could not find one that delivered.

Jack Gray, 22, was stopped by police driving his Vauxhall Corsa on Broad Street, Newtown, at around 9pm on April 16, and was arrested for being over the limit.

Welshpool Magistrates’ Court heard on Tuesday, May 31, that the reading provided by Gray was 50 micrograms of alcohol – the legal limit is 35 micrograms.

Prosecutor Justin Espie said police had been informed of a potential drink driver and had stopped a vehicle being driven by Gray. He provided a positive reading at the roadside and was arrested.

Mr Espie said Gray, of Chadsfield Road, Rugeley, in Staffordshire, had no previous convictions.

Speaking in his own defence, Gray said: “I put my hands up. I went to order a takeaway but none delivered. I’d had four Coors Light during the course of the day.”

Gray handed in a character reference from a former high school teacher and also inquired about a drink drive rehabilitation course as he was keen to reduce any ban.

Magistrates disqualified him for 14 months, a ban he can reduce by 25 per cent if he successfully completes the drink drive awareness course.

He was also fined £253 and must pay £85 costs as well as a £34 surcharge.