A MEMBER of the Royal Navy has narrowly avoided losing his licence after he smashed into another car trying to overtake on a North Ayrshire road.  Anton Mills, 25, who is from Paisley, was travelling between Saltcoats and Dalry, near to Tower Farm, on November 4 of last year.  The court heard how Mills was second in a group of four cars heading east on the B714 at 6.50am on the morning of November 4 when the person driving the car in front of Mills changed their headlights by accident before striking the indicator which he interpreted as the road being clear for an overtake.  Mills pulled out and checked the road and started to overtake but another vehicle came out a hidden dip in the road and the Mills’ car struck it head-on.  Emergency services were called to the scene and the driver of the other vehicle had serious injuries.

Matthew Brown, defending, said that although the circumstances were unfortunate, it was not entirely his client’s fault.  He said that because his client comes from Paisley that he was not familiar with the roads.  Brown said: “Mr Mills has been very upset and concerned about the other driver. He has a clean licence and would like this disposed of as soon as possible.”  He added that he has a concern for the consequences but the onus is on him.  Mr Brown also said that there were signs on the road saying that there were hidden dips but these were unable to be observed due to the darkness at the time of the incident.  Sheriff Young said: “This is a case where your actions led to a collision.

"I have to consider your circumstances and your actions.

"It is your duty to ensure the road is clear and you can’t rely on another driver.

"I will take into account all the factors, your clean licence and your attitude towards the offence.”  Mills was given nine penalty points on his licence and fined £1,000 at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court last week.