A DRINK driver caught at around midnight was on the way to see a friend who had taken an overdose, a court heard.

Burnley magistrates were told how Anthony Riddle, 21, had not intended to drive but felt he would be fine to get behind the wheel.

Riddle, of Coal Clough Lane, Burnley, admitted driving with excess alcohol and was fined £100, banned from driving for 18 months and must pay £55 costs.

Andy Robinson, prosecuting, said police saw Riddle swerving as he drove along Colne Road, Burnley. One of his rear lights was not working and he had a minor collision with the kerb.

Officers spoke to him and noticed his breath smelled of drink. He was taken to the police station, where the lowest of two samples showed 62 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath -- the legal limit is 35.

Mark Williams, defending, said Riddle had not intended to drive that evening, but his friend took an overdose of medication and was admitted to hospital.

The defendant wanted to go and see him. He had drunk two bottles of WKD and about half a can of lager, but felt fine to drive. Riddle did not think he was over the limit but had to accept that he was. He co-operated with police and pleaded guilty at the first opportunity.

Mr Williams added the defendant was going to lose his job along with his driving licence so the offence was going to cost him dear. He would find it difficult to get alternative work without his licence.