A DRINK-DRIVER was caught after smashing into a taxi in Manchester Road, Burnley, as he went for something to eat, a court was told.

Burnley magistrates heard former miner John Kershaw, 58, had been to see a friend, got a cab home, but then made the "foolish decision" to get behind the wheel.

Kershaw, of Laithe Street, Burnley, admitted driving with excess alcohol.

He was banned for 16 months, fined £150, and must pay £50 costs.

David Lawson, defending, said Kershaw did not get into his vehicle believing he was over the limit.

He had been to see a friend, near Whalley, and had lager and a Benedictine. He got a cab home, was there for a while, felt peckish and made the foolish decision to drive to Oxford Road for a takeaway.

Mr Lawson said Kershaw, now on disabilit benefit, felt great embarrassment, and shame, and would be caused hardship by what he had done. The solicitor added: "His mother is reliant on him for transport."