A KILBIRNIE man has been banned from driving after admitting he was unfit to be behind the wheel after taking prescription drugs.

James Blakely, 43, of Hindog Place, was seen just after 3pm on June 18 on Sharon Street in Dalry by the witnesses who looked out of their bedroom window to see the accused in a parking space. He drove his car forward which caused a collision. The owner of the car saw this and went out to speak to Blakely and asked for the police to be phoned. Police responded in just five minutes and when they arrived they noted the accused sitting in his car, he appeared to be under the influence and looked in a poor condition.

A roadside breath test was carried out by the attending officers but this came back negative. They then carried out a field impairment test which Blakely failed.

Later that day, Blakely was examined and found to be impaired and therefore unfit to drive.

Graeme Cunningham, defending, stated that his client had a history of mental health problems and other issues. He said: “He was prescribed drugs for pain and other health issues. He’s learnt the hard way. He was impaired and has accepted this and the consequences.” Sheriff McDonald stated: “Driving a car is a very dangerous thing and it has consequences.” She then fined Blakely £240 and banned him from driving for one year.