A 60-year-old woman was under the influence of alcohol when she drove home from her friend’s house following a disagreement.

Elaine Davidson then refused to provide a sample of breath when police arrived at her home, Workington Magistrates’ Court was told.

Pamela Fee, prosecuting, said police had received a call with a concern for welfare, on February 8.

Davidson had been at her friend’s address when there had been a disagreement and she had left.

Officers attended the defendant’s address and she said she had driven under the influence of alcohol. She refused to provide a breath sample.

She was arrested and taken to the police station. Officers explained to her that she needed to provide a specimen of breath but she refused again.

Davidson admitted to driving from Ireby to her home address at Highmoor Bungalows in Wigton.

Ms Fee said the defendant couldn’t give a medical reason as to why she couldn’t provide a specimen of breath.

David Martin, defending, said: “It’s an unfortunate incident. This lady has never been in trouble before.

“Police came to her house. She spoke to them. She admitted to drink driving.”

Davidson pleaded guilty to failing to provide specimen for analysis.

Magistrates imposed a 17-month driving ban, to be reduced by 17 weeks, if she completes the drink-drivers’ rehabilitation course.

Davidson was given a 12-month community order with 80 hours of unpaid work. She was ordered to pay £85 costs and a £114 victim surcharge.

The defendant, who was tearful as magistrates passed sentence, said she was “very sorry”.

MORE FROM COURT: Drug-user threw wrap of heroin away when he saw police