A DRINK driver three times the limit who hit a car has clocked up his second conviction for excess alcohol, a court heard.

Burnley Magistrates were told how Simon Buckler, 29, stayed at the scene after the smash and co-operated with police.

Buckler, of South Villas, Stacksteads, admitted driving with excess alcohol and was bailed until September 17, for a pre-sentence report. The bench, who gave him an interim driving ban, said they were thinking of a community-based penalty.

Andy Robinson, prosecuting, said although there had been an accident, the defendant was not charged with driving without due care and attention.

It seemed he had been travelling towards Waterfoot and two cars were coming in the opposite direction.

Buckler's car went onto the opposite carriageway, narrowly missing one vehicle but hitting the one following.

The defendant co-operated with police at the scene.

He was taken to the police station and the lower of two breath tests showed 105 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 mililitres of breath - the legal limit is 35.

Philip Whittaker, defending, said two weeks before the accident, Buckler realised his drinking was out of control.

He had been to see his GP and had been referred for teratment, but that had not taken place when the offence was committed. The defendant had been treated by his doctor for depression and had a number of personal problems.