A MAN who overlooked a driving ban imposed in 1997, but said by his counsel to have tried very hard to stay out of trouble, may well have reason to regret his memory lapse.

Mark Flemming was caught driving the day after a three-year disqualification came to an end.

Blackburn magistrates were told he had forgotten about a five-year disqualification which was still running.

Flemming, 36, of Scotland Bank Terrace, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified and without insurance.

The magistrates adjourned the case until August 30 for the preparation of pre-sentence reports. The defendant was warned that, because of his bad record for similar offences, all options, including custody, would be open to the sentencing bench.

Kevin Preston, defending, said Flemming had been disqualified for three years on July 30, 1998, and the latest offence was committed on July 31. "He had forgotten that he was disqualified for five years in 1997 and that that ban was still running."

"My client has tried very hard to keep out of trouble and has done so for three years."