A FORMER delivery driver who got behind the wheel for a second time while banned, escaped a jail sentence.

Burnley magistrates heard how the prospect of going to prison for the first time "struck terror" into the heart of Gail Hamer, 41.

Hamer, of Parkinson Street, Burnley, was put on probation for six months and must attend a responsible drivers programme.

She was banned for six months, after admitting driving while disqualified, no insurance, no test certificate and resisting or obstructing a constable, on April 18. She must also pay £35 costs.

Zabeda Maqsood, prosecuting, said Hamer gave somebody else's details, after being stopped in a van. Checks were made and Hamer confirmed her real name and admitted she was a disqualified driver.

Hamer was banned for three years, in November 1999. Graeme Tindall, defending, said Hamer had two previous convictions for driving offences and only got in trouble when involved with vehicles.

She was aware she had put herself on the brink of a custodial sentence and the prospect of jail "struck terror" into her heart.

The defendant had been a hard worker, but had not been able to get to work while banned and had not got a full-time job since. She was now seeking employment.

Hamer had been offered a van "on the drip," by a friend and proposed to buy and store it for when her ban expired.

Hamer had been desperately short of money and had been offered a small amount of cash to do a favour for a friend.

Mr Tindall added Hamer had now got rid of the van and no longer intended to own a vehicle until she was able to get back on the road.

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