A "MOUTHFUL" of beer cost a 23-year-old man a three-year driving ban.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Craig Morris Bennett, of Frances Street, Darwen, was only just over the limit when he was breathalysed.

But because it was his second offence within a ten-year period, three years was the minimum ban. Bennett pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol and without insurance.

He was fined £200 with £55 costs.

Bennett, who gave a reading of 42 against the legal limit of 35, agreed to be referred to the drink drive rehabilitation programme which, if completed successfully, would reduce his ban by up to 25 per cent.

Robin Phoenix, defending, said that had Bennett taken the opportunity to give a blood sample he might well have been under the limit.

"One mouthful of beer is all he was over," said Mr Phoenix.