Powys man fined for being found drunk in charge of car

Christopher Morris, 34, appeared at Welshpool Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, March 17, where he admitted one charge of being in charge of a motor vehicle while over the drink drive limit.

Prosecutor Helen Tench told court that it was 1.10am on February 21 when officers discovered Morris, who was near his vehicle on the B4569.

“PCs Price and Hutchinson were on patrol, when they responded following reports of an abandoned vehicle in the road with its headlights on, between Caersws and Trefeglwys,” said Mrs Tench.

“The defendant was close to the vehicle; he appeared to be vomiting.

“He also smelt of alcohol and was unsteady on his feet. He provided a positive roadside test and was arrested.”

The reading provided by Morris was 65 micrograms of alcohol in breath – the limit is 35 micrograms.

Acting for Morris, of Newtown Road, Llanidloes, Rob Hanratty said: “He very much regrets being in this position today and he takes full responsibility.

“He is self-employed in the building trade and is involved in transporting tools and equipment between sites.  Most of his work entails travelling 50 miles or more.”

Magistrates fined Morris a total of £831 – including a £533 fine, £213 surcharge and £85 costs.

They also warned him to be careful on the road, as they placed 10 penalty points on his licence.