An R driver restricted to 45mph did a speed of 82mph on his way to "the North West" on Saturday May 10 this year, the day the North West 200 road races were on.

Robert Burns (23), of Crumlin Road in Belfast, was detected at the Crankill Road dual-carriageway near Ballymena on Saturday May 10 this year. The R plates were due to expire in October this year.

A defence barrister said the defendant was "apologetic" after his speed "crept up" on his way to "the North West". She said a number of other people were in a car with the defendant.

District Judge Nigel Broderick told Ballymena Magistrates Court, speed is a major cause of accidents and there are "far too many accidents on our roads".

He said the defendant could consider himself "very lucky" he was not being banned as he handed down five penalty points and a £200 fine.