A Co Armagh man, who “took a chance” to go to the shop, is given a driving ban for no insurance.

John Rainey, aged 56, from Princes Street, Lurgan, appeared before Craigavon Magistrates Court on Wednesday.

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Craigavon courthouse. Picture: Tony Hendron.

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Rainey’s solicitor Mr Pat Vernon said his client pleaded guilty, adding he only has a provisional driving licence which he has lost.

Police spotted an Audi A3 driving along Market Street, Lurgan, with no headlights on September 22 this year at around 8.20pm. Police checks showed Rainey was not insured to drive the vehicle.

Mr Vernon said his client never has had a full driving licence. “He’d bought this wee cheap Audi to try and start to drive. It was 8pm at night. He took a chance to go to the shop and he jumped in the car,” said the solicitor, adding his client fully co-operated with police.

District Judge Michael Ranaghan banned Rainey from driving for six weeks plus a £250 fine and the £15 Offender Levy.