AN ELLESMERE Port man who clipped a roundabout while driving after drinking to commemorate a friend was banned for the second time in eight years.

Jamie Barratt, 31 and of Websters Lane in Great Sutton, pleaded guilty to driving while more than twice the legal limit on Saturday, November 16.

Chester Magistrates Court heard that on the day, a witness contacted the police after he witnessed Barratt walking unsteadily after a road traffic collision on a roundabout near Longlooms East at about 10pm.

He was seen walking away from his Renault Clio and the witness shouted at him to check if anyone was in the vehicle.

Police eventually arrested the defendant, who initially claimed he wasn’t driving and then gave a no-comment interview.

In mitigation, the court heard that Barratt had not intended to spend the day drinking but other friends had brought him out to commemorate the death of a friend.

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Mark Evans, defending, added that ‘my client is clearly ashamed of what happened’.

He added: “He had been drinking with friends on the anniversary of a friend’s death and then tried to drive.

“He co-operated fully with police and in court but he is apologetic.

“He now has to cycle 22 miles to work and he will be remembering what happened with each mile.”

Chairman of the bench Ian Williams gave Barratt a lengthy ban which he was explained was down to a previous conviction for drink-driving in 2016.

He added: “Your plea is aggravated by several matters.

“The accident where you clipped the roundabout which was down to your alcohol levels which were twice the legal limit.

“You have already received a 20-month ban which suggests you weren’t just over the limit.”

Barratt was fined £711 and was ordered to play a £284 victim surcharge and £85 in costs.

He was also banned for 46 months but if he completes a drink-driving rehabilitation course by September 15, 2027 then he can re-apply for his licence on November 27 that year.

However, if he chooses not to, then he will be banned until October 2028.