A DRIVER who fell asleep at the wheel demolished a sign post and then left the car in the middle of the road, a court heard.

George Wray, 45, did not report the early-hours smash to police until later even though the vehicle had been left in a dangerous position. Meanwhile officers had already turned up at the home of the disabled owner, Burnley magistrates were told.

Wray, of Melrose Avenue, Burnley, admitted driving without due care and attention and failing to stop. He was fined £150 with £55 costs.

Sue Campbell, prosecuting, told the court police found the car badly damaged in Burnley, with the base of a signpost underneath it. The sign was lying in the road and the vehicle was locked.

Officers went to the registered keeper's home and he said Wray had been using it. Police went to the defendant's home and got no response. He later rang officers.

Mark Williams, defending, said after the accident, Wray thought the best thing to do would be to go and tell the owner what had happened. Officers had already been round so that was why he did not inform the police. Wray later went to speak to them.