A drink-driving pensioner who had three pints at his club paid the price with a 12- month ban.

Burnley magistrates heard Raymond Gregson, 71, was stopped in his Mitsubishi Shogun, in Lowerhouse Lane, after police received information.

A roadside breath test was positive and, at the police station, a test showed 54 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35. His driving licence had also expired.

Gregson, of Greenbrook Road, Burnley, admitted driving with excess alcohol, and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, on May 26. Gregson, who has no previous convictions, was fined £380, with a £38 victim surcharge, and £85 costs.

Tom Snape, prosecuting, said at 6.25pm, police received information Gregson had been drinking at the Railway, and was driving home.

John Rusius, defending, said it was the bank holiday weekend, and Gregson perhaps had a pint more than usual. Gregson had hip problems, and the loss of his licence would cause him some difficulties.

Mr Rusius said Gregson had found out that at 70, a driver had to apply for a new licence. He had done that, forgot to send the photograph and there was a delay.

The solicitor added: “All he can do is apologise.”