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09
May
Pateley drink-driver who had ‘near-miss’ with wall banned
A Pateley Bridge man has been banned from driving after he was found to be almost three-times the legal limit.
Robert Wilson, 40, appeared at Harrogate Magistrates Court on Friday (May 8) when he was sentenced for one offence of drink-driving.
He admitted the offence on March 12.
Prosecutor Louise Berry told the court police saw Wilson driving through the centre of Pateley Bridge at around 12.30am on February 21 this year.
He caught the officers’ eyes as he was “drifting” between the lanes, driving noticeably slowly and even had a near-miss with a wall.
Police stopped Wilson, who was soon arrested after failing a roadside breath test.
Ms Berry said Wilson, whose address is listed in Pateley Bridge, recorded 95 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath – almost three-times the limit of 35.
‘Alcohol has ruined my life’
Wilson, who was not legally represented in court, said he struggled with alcohol misuse but has since sought help from North Yorkshire Horizons – an addiction recovery service.
He added he has also completed an “alcohol detox” and has been abstinent from alcohol since March 16.
“Alcohol has ruined my life”, Wilson told the court.
It was a very, very serious mistake on my part. I’m very, very sorry to be here and I fully understand the seriousness of the offence.
Wilson, who has no previous convictions, also told the magistrates he intends on staying sober.
The defendant was handed a 12-month community order, during which he must complete 10 rehabilitation activity days and a six-month mental health treatment requirement.
He was banned from driving for two years, which would be reduced by 24 weeks if he completes a drink-drive awareness course.
Wilson was also ordered to pay a total of £1,374 to the court.
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