Police were told by a member of the public about a driver who had just consumed half a bottle of whisky.

Blackburn magistrates heard when officers stopped Raymond Duxbury he was obstructive but eventually gave a breath sample nearly double the legal limit.

Duxbury, 74, of Bedford Street, Blackburn, who pleaded not guilty to drink-driving had been convicted in his absence.

He was fined £180 with £350 costs and a £72 victim surcharge and banned from driving for 28 months.

The court heard he had a conviction for drink driving in February 2024. The latest offence was committed in September 2003.

Ian Huggan, defending, said his client didn’t take issue with the fact he was driving or the reading.

“Had he attended for trial his defence would have been one of duress,” said Mr Huggan.