AN IRVINE man who drove while disqualified has avoided a jail term - despite being warned by a sheriff that it was "an option".

Kenneth Holt, 44, appeared at Kimarnock Sheriff Court on Thursday, September 28, for sentencing, having previously admitted to driving while he was disqualified from doing so at the Morrisons petrol station on Kilwinning Road in Stevenston.

Holt, of Girdle Toll, was also not covered by any policy of insurance.

Prior to sentence being handed out, Holt's defence solicitor stated that his client accepts that this was a "foolish decision".

They added: "I would ask your lordship to step back from custody consideration."

In response, Sheriff Murdoch Mactaggart told Holt that custody was "an option" but added “I am prepared today not to do that".

Instead, Sheriff Mactaggart placed Holt under a restriction of liberty order (RLO) which will limit his movements.

Holt will now have to remain within his home address between the hours of 7pm and 7am each day for three months.

In relation to driving while disqualified, Holt was also handed a further disqualification from holding or obtaining a driving licence for a period of 18 months.

He was admonished and dismissed on his charge of driving without a policy of insurance.