A SUSPECTED drink driver who smashed his car into a tree refused to give a breath test - and was more worried about his dog, a court was told.

Burnley Magistrates heard how Sean Mortimer's pet suffered a cut in the accident and he wanted to make sure the animal was attended to rather than co-operating with police.

Mortimer, 26, was arrested and taken to Burnley police station while the dog was taken to Nelson station and looked after.

Mortimer, who repeatedly refused to give a sample, admitted failing to provide a specimen for analysis.

The defendant, of Accrington Road, Burnley, was given 100 hours unpaid work, and banned for two years. The bench made no order for costs.

Wendy Chappell, prosecuting, said police came across a one-vehicle crash on Eastern Avenue, Burnle, in the early hours. Mortimer had lost control of his vehicle and hit a tree.

Officers went over to Mortimer, who smelled of drink, but he refused to give a breath test. He said: "I am not giving you anything. Where's my dog?" He was asked to provide two samples but refused.

The defendant was interviewed and made no comment. He had previous convictions for similar offences.

Dylan Bradshaw, defending, said Mortimer had been disorientated after the minor collision and his main concern was for his dog who had also been in the vehicle and was upset and shocked.