Land Rover spotted weaving over line

Eleanor Rosaleen Leader (46), of Ballinahone Road, Maghera, was also fined £200 with a £15 offender levy for driving while having consumed excess alcohol in breath.

Prosecuting counsel said at 11.30pm on May 2 last year, police on mobile patrol observed a Land Rover swerving a number of times over the central white line on the Castledawson Road, Magherafelt.

He said they stopped the vehicle and on speaking to the defendant detected a smell of alcohol. She failed a preliminary test and was arrested and later provided an evidential specimen which showed a reading of 47mgs in breath.

Defence solicitor Donal Heron stressed it was a low reading. Mr Heron said had the defendant asked for legal assistance she would probably have been advised to request a blood test. He said the defendant had been going to collect her daughter who worked in a hot food takeaway and felt “she was okay to drive”.

Mr Heron added that as a result of the disqualification the defendant will probably not be able to return to her employment.

Imposing the penalties, Deputy District Judge Noel Dunlop certified the defendant suitable for the rehabilitation course which could entitle her to a three-month reduction to her period of disqualification.

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