AN ASDA delivery driver was reported for being drunk by a customer who said they had seen him throw an empty can of Stella Artois out of the van.

Blackburn magistrates heard a police officer who went to Peter Stuart Helps’ next drop saw him reversing his van and narrowly missing a parked car.

Helps, 54, of Fielding Lane, Oswaldtwistle, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol.

He was fined £175 with £85 costs and £30 victim surcharge and banned from driving for 18 months. Helps gave a reading of 68 against the legal limit of 35.

Tracy Yates, prosecuting, said police were contacted by a customer who believed Helps was drunk and told them his next delivery was in Epsom Way, Accrington.

“The customer said he was driving while drinking and had thrown a can of Stella Artois out of his window,” said Mrs Yates.

“The officer watched him unload in Epsom Way and then reverse away, narrowly missing a parked car.”

Jonathan Taylor, defending, said his client was apologetic about what had happened.

“He had received news the previous day that a second, temporary job had become permanent and he had been celebrating.

“He is adamant the last drink he had was about 6am,” said Mr Taylor.

“He denies altogether he drank anything while he was actually carrying out his duties.”

Mr Taylor said Helps had been dismissed from his job with Asda but didn’t need his licence for the other job.