A BRANCH manager with an accident firm took a risk when an arranged lift to work failed to materialise.

Magistrates heard that Andrew Richardson Chadwick was banned from driving until he passed an extended re-test.

But he got behind the wheel in order to get files he had been working on at home to the office on time.

Chadwick, 33, of Holmefield Gardens, Barrowford, pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified and without insurance. He was ordered to complete 200 hours community punishment.

Blackburn Magistrates Court heard that Chadwick had been sent to prison for six months and disqualified until he passed an extended re-test in 1999 for an offence of dangerous driving.

Alfred Rebello, defending, said Chadwick had foolishly driven to the office when a lift that had been arranged failed to materialise.

"He had applied for the re-test," said Mr Rebello.