NIGHT shift worker Stuart Thornton was breathalysed as he returned home from a rare night out with his partner, a court was told.
Blackburn magistrates heard that failing the test had spoiled an unblemished driving record going back 29 years.
Thornton, 46, of Peel Mount, Knuzden, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol. He was fined £250 with £65 costs and banned from driving for 18 months. Thornton, who gave a reading of 81 against the legal limit of 35, agreed to be referred to the drink drivers rehabilitation programme which, if completed successfully, could reduce his ban by up to 25 per cent.
Richard Prew, defending, said: On this night he had gone out with his partner for a meal," said Mr Prew. "He was drinking halves and had some wine with the meal, but had no idea he would give a reading as high as he did."
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