A VAN driver who crashed into another vehicle at 9.30am was found to be more than double the drink-drive limit.

Blackburn magistrates heard Scott John Counsell admitted he had been drinking until 3am and estimated he had drunk 12 pints of Stella.

Counsell, 50, of New Bank Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol.

He was made subject to a community order for 12 months with 10 days’ rehabilitation activity requirement, banned from driving for 20 months and ordered to pay £85 victim surcharge.

Tracy Yates, prosecuting, said Counsell told police he had skidded on ice before colliding with the oncoming vehicle on the road to Ribchester.

Helen Farnsworth, defending, said her client had been struggling with alcohol for some time and had already paid a heavy price for the latest incident.

“His partner ended the relationship which meant he was homeless, and he can’t continue to work as a self-employed builder,” said Mrs Farnsworth.

“After the incident he went to see his doctor and is now engaging with drug and alcohol services.

“He has been accepted for a detox programme.”