MAGISTRATES have revealed their dismay at banning a drug driver from the road who wrote “eloquent” letters to the court in her defence.

The bench sitting in Llandrindod Wells on Wednesday, November 11, also commended Autumn Gray for referring herself to the relevant services after she was arrested for driving while under the influence of cannabis.

Gray, 28, admitted the offence when appearing this week. Prosecutor Stephen Davies said the she was stopped by police driving a Ford Fiesta along Station Crescent in Llandrindod on May 29 this year.

“It was 7.30pm when Police Sergeant Thomas stopped the defendant,” said Mr Davies. “The driver seemed under the influence and there was a smell of cannabis, and her pupils were dilated.”

A roadside test proved positive and a further sample revealed the amount of cannabis in her system to be six micrograms per litre.

Acting for Gray, of Penybryn, Crossgates, Gareth Walters said his client was of previously clean character.

“This will impact on her mother and children as she will struggle to do the school run and do the shopping for her mum,” he said.

He said: “She was using cannabis for pain relief, but she’s stopped her cannabis intake and is now using co-codamol instead. She has done what she can to resolve the matter. She is fully remorseful and realises how stupid she was.”

Geraint Evans, chair of the bench, said: “We have read your very eloquently put letters and references, it’s just a shame this has been done retrospectively.

“We’re glad you’ve sought proper medical help and referred yourself to Kaleidoscope.”

Gray was banned from driving for 12 months and she must pay a £120 fine, £85 costs and a £34 surcharge.