Sheriff warns banned Dumbarton motorist

Sep 12 2008 by Amanda McKendrick, Lennox Herald (main ed)

A BANNED driver got behind the wheel after a night out because his pal had been drinking.

Steven Gallacher was stopped by police on the A814 Helensburgh at 1.30am on July 10 this year.

Last week the 22-year-old, of Merkins Avenue, Dumbarton, appeared at Dumbarton Sheriff Court and admitted driving while disqualified and without a licence.

Paul Crozier, defending, said: “He had not intended to drive but his friend had been drinking and he had not, although he was certainly aware he was subject to a disqualification.

“He shouldn’t have taken the car and he appreciates that.”

Sheriff Simon Fraser told Gallacher: “When a court disqualifies you from driving that means you do not drive. I can promise you this, do it again and you will end up in prison.”

Gallacher was ordered to complete 160 hours’ community service, disqualified from driving for 18 months and fined £350.