A MOTORIST whose bid to overturn his driving ban was rejected by a judge illegally drove to and from the hearing, magistrates heard.

Christopher Proud, 38, who was described in court as a successful businessman, was today jailed after a court heard how he repeatedly flouted his disqualification.

Proud, of Cross Gates, Lamplugh, near Whitehaven, admitted three offences of disqualified driving and a raft of associated motoring offences. He also pleaded guilty to possessing cannabis.

Prosecutor John Moran told Carlisle's Rickergate Magistrates' Court that the defendant committed the offences on March 16, April 1, and on March 31 - the day when he attended the city's crown court to appeal his 48 month ban.

That was imposed in January 16 for failing to provide a specimen of breath when asked to by a police officer.

Mike Woolaghan, for Proud, said: "The driving on March 31 was an emergency situation he had found himself in.

"He'd made an emergency arrangement to attend court for the appeal." The lawyer said the defendant's lift had fallen through and there was no public transport available.

"He foolishly decided to drive to the court," added the lawyer.

Magistrates imposed a total of 318 days custody - with the sentence including a 140 day sentence that was imposed earlier but suspended.

The defendant was also given a new driving ban, this time for 60 months.