A DRIVER who failed a breathalyser after stopping for two pints on his way home from work blamed the strength of the guest ale he had drunk.

Blackburn magistrates heard George Linnane gave a reading of 56 against the legal limit of 35 when he was breathalysed at 6pm.

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Linnane, 57, of Fielding Street, Rishton, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol.

He was fined £290 with £85 costs and £30 victim surcharge and banned from driving for three years after the magistrates were told he had a similar conviction eight years ago.

Gareth Price, defending, said since being breathalysed his client had gone back to the pub and made inquiries which revealed the guest ale he had drunk was considerably stronger than his usual tipple.

"He is a self-employed painter and decorator and the inevitable ban will hit him hard," said Mr Price.