A DISQUALIFIED rider caught on a motor cycle thought he was only banned from driving cars.

Burnley Magistrates were told how student Michael Lockett, 26, had been disqualified for a year in November after being convicted of failing to provide a specimen of breath.

Lockett of Hollinhall Barn, Trawden, admitted driving while disqualified and not having insurance and the bench said although he genuinely mistakenly believed he could ride the motor cycle, he had committed a serious offence.

He was bailed until 28 August, for a pre-sentence report.

Brian Irlam, defending, said Lockett believed he could still ride motor cycles. He was returning tools he had borrowed from a farmer.

He was sorry, accepted now he was disqualified and would not be seen in court again for such an offence.