A MOTORIST who refused to provide a breath sample had been seen veering on to the wrong side of the road after going to buy alcohol.

Police were called due to the manner of driving of a Hyundai i10 at Tesco car park in Millom on July 16, Workington Magistrates’ Court heard.

The female caller said the driver was Shane Carragher, 41, and he was drunk. She said she had seen him in the shop and he was trying to buy alcohol.

Pamela Fee, prosecuting, said the woman had then paid for her items and went outside, where she saw the defendant’s vehicle. She waited around 10 minutes to see if he was driving.

The defendant started to drive off and the woman followed him. She said he was veering to the wrong side of the road and at one point, was driving into oncoming traffic.

Police attended and found the vehicle parked outside an address. Carragher was asked to provide a specimen of breath but refused to do so.

He was taken to custody and officers went through the procedure with him. He said he didn’t want to provide a sample so was placed into a cell and was released once he was sober.

A probation officer told the court that Carragher’s sister had passed away in February and he found it difficult being home alone thinking about her.

Shock and panic had contributed to his behaviour towards police and he had presented with genuine remorse, the court was told.

John Cooper, defending, said: “I have watched a video from the police station. It’s quite clear he is admitting drink-driving.

“It’s the first time he’s been before the court. It’s a guilty plea at the first opportunity.”

Carragher, of Tarn Head, Haverigg, Millom, pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen for analysis.

Magistrates banned Carragher from driving for 30 months, to be reduced by 30 weeks, if he completes the drink-drivers’ rehabilitation course.

He must also complete unpaid work and pay £85 costs and a £114 victim surcharge