AN 87-year-old motorist was banned after admitting his fourth speeding offence in three years.

Blackburn magistrates rejected submissions that a disqualification would cause exceptional hardship for William Thornton, ruling that an ambulance could be called to take him to hospital, his prescriptions and supermarket shopping could be delivered to his home and that taxis are 'readily available.'

The magistrates also noted that his wife, who had a licence but had not driven for over 12 months, was on the car insurance.

Thornton, of Harkswood Gardens, Brierfield, pleaded guilty to speeding in the Blackburn area and under the totting up procedure he was banned for six months. He was also fined £60 and ordered to pay £35 costs.

The court heard that all Thornton's speeding convictions had involved speeds of less that 40 mph.

Thornton told the court that he suffers from angina and arthritis and had recently had surgery to remove a tumour from his colon. He said he had regular check-ups at his doctor's, which is about three miles from his home, and at Burnley General Hospital.

Mr Thornton said his home is at the bottom of a hill about a third of a mile from the main road. If he had to walk to the main road he would have to stop to get his breath back at least three or four times.

David Leach, defending, said the hardship Thornton would suffer if he lost his licence would be beyond exceptional.

"The location of his home, his age and the medical conditions that he suffers all contribute to that," said Mr Leach. "His car is his only means of access to the outside world for him and his wife."