A 32-year-old Accrington man with more than 40 previous convictions for driving while disqualified was caught behind the wheel of a BMW in Oswaldtwistle.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Robert Wayne Bauser was immediately recognised by a patrolling officer and when he was confronted shortly after, he admitted driving.

Bauser, of Willows Lane, pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified and without insurance and possession of cannabis. He was remanded on bail until June 30 for the preparation of pre-sentence reports.

Julie Reilly, prosecuting, said she had gone through Bauser's record and had counted 43 pervious offences of driving while disqualified before running out of time.

Michael Blacklidge, defending, said the last offence had been in September.

"It seems he may have turned the corner, if you will excuse the motoring metaphor," said Mr Blacklidge.