A FORMER police officer who drove through a red light, and crashed into another vehicle, was later found to be almost four times the legal drink-drive limit.

Blackburn magistrates heard Emma Shaw drove away from the collision without stopping, but was later found sitting in her car at the back of her home in Whalley.

Shaw, 39, of Hayhurst Close, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol.

She was remanded on bail for the preparation of a pre-sentence report.

She gave a reading of 131 against the legal limit of 35.

Catherine Allan, prosecuting, said Shaw had been drinking during the afternoon of November 18 in the Ribchester Arms, Ribchester.

She said Shaw told police she had intended to leave her car at the pub, and had not explained why she changed her plans.

“She said she had no recollection of the journey she then undertook,” said Miss Allan.

She said a witness became concerned when he saw Shaw drive off the pub car park and nearly collide with three vehicles travelling in the opposite direction.

As she approached the A59, the lights were on red, but Shaw pulled out and collided with a Toyota, causing extensive damage, and injuries to the passengers, including a 14-year-old boy.

“She left the scene, but the witness who had followed her informed the police and they attended at her home address,” said Miss Allan.

“She was in her car at the rear of her home and initially refused to open the car door.

“She is a social worker and former police officer.”

Ordering a pre-sentence report, District Judge Nick Sanders said: “You should be aware that you are at risk of a custodial sentence.”