A COMMUNITY champion who has received a government Respect Award for her work made a "terrible mistake" when she drove home from a concert after drinking.

Amy Fenton, 22, of St John's Street, Darwen, was more than double the legal drink drive limit when she was stopped by police in Turncroft Road at 1.25am on May 26.

She told Blackburn magistrates she felt she had let herself down and that she was considering talking to other youngsters about the incident to help educate them..

"As someone respected so highly in my community I feel, even at my age, I should be setting an example," she said. "Nobody could be as angry as I am with myself."

Fenton pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol. She was banned for 18 months and fined £200 with £50 costs.

Catherine Allan, prosecuting, said officerssaw a Suzuki Swift being driven by Fenton turn right without indicating and clip a kerb.

When stoped and asked if she had been drinking Fenton replied;" Yes, I had one about 7.30 pm."

Rachel Adamson, defending, said Fenton, who has completed a degree course in English language at Manchester University, said her beha-viour had been a one-off.

"The way she conducts her life and the work she has done for the community provide a fuller picture of the kind of person she really is," said Miss Adamson. "She has had something of an aberration and has made a terrible mistake."

Miss Adamson said Fenton had been hurt by publicity surrounding the case but realised that if you put your head above the parapet you are there to be shot at.

"She has taken it on the chin and is trying to find something positive even from this situation," said Miss Adamson. "She has spoken to the local beat officer and has offered to speak to other young people about her experience and tell them it is very unpleasant."

Last year, Fenton set up a residents' association to try to build community spirit and she was also an unsuccessful candidate in May's local government elections.

l Now in their fourth year, the Respect Awards honour the bravery, energy and determination of people who have tackled disrespect in their communities and taken a stand against anti-social behaviour.