A MAN whose car ended up on its roof after hitting a hedge told police he had swerved to avoid a dog.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Robert William Harrison later failed a breathalyser test.

Harrison, 55, of Holme Hill, Clitheroe, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol. He was fined £350 with £60 costs and disqualified from driving for 12 months. Harrison agreed to be referred to the drink drive rehabilitation programme.

Pat Bramley, prosecuting, said police called to an accident in Whalley Road, Langho shortly before 11 pm found a Ford Focus on its roof. Harrison was being tended by paramedics but declined hospital treatment.

Robin Phoenix, defending, said his client worked as an account manager for a large motor company. The mandatory ban would cause him problems but his employers had said that his employment would continue.

He has already had to pay £2,000 in terms of excess on the written-off vehicle, said Mr Phoenix.