Getting behind the wheel after taking cocaine cost a man his driving licence.

Albert Robert Newell, 24, of Pica Cottages, Pica, appeared at West Cumbria Magistrates Court to face a single charge under the Road Traffic Act 1988.

The court heard that, on September 28 last year, Newell drove a Citroen Berlingo van on Preston Street in Whitehaven when the proportion of cocaine in his blood exceeded the limit specified in the law.

Newell pleaded guilty to the offence and was banned from driving for 36 months.

He must pay a £300 fine, £85 costs and a £30 surcharge.