A BANNED driver caught by police behind the wheel of a work’s van has had five months added to his disqualification.

Scott Ostle, 37, who had been given a three-year driving ban in June 2022 for a drug driving offence, was caught driving on October 5 last year.

Outlining the case at Workington Magistrates’ Court, prosecutor Pamela Fee said the defendant was seen by officers driving a Ford Transit van in Flimby.

Police stopped the vehicle and Ostle, who was sat in the driver’s seat, admitted he was a disqualified driver.

David Martin, defending, said: “He made a big mistake that day. He works as a grounds worker. He took the decision to help out by taking the van.

“It was only going to be a five-minute journey when he was pulled by police. There are no aggravating features. He is a very hard-working young guy.”

Ostle, of Solway Avenue, Flimby, Maryport, pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified and using a motor vehicle on a road without insurance.

Magistrates added five months to the defendant’s driving ban. Ostle was fined £727 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £291 victim surcharge.