A MAN got in his van to drive home after drinking shots in double quick time.

Blackburn magistrates heard Damion Clarke was nearly four times the legal limit when police stopped him because of the erratic nature of his driving.

Clarke, 38, of Silbury Close, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol. He was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison suspended for 24 months, ordered to do 200 hours' unpaid work and pay £85 costs and £115 victim surcharge.

He was banned from driving for 36 months. The court heard Clarke gave a reading of 129 against the legal limit of 35.

Helen Farnsworth, defending, said on the day in question Clarke had been working and had gone for a drink with a female friend who was now his partner. As they were about to leave she saw her ex-partner and became upset.

"She suggested they have a few shots and he consumed a number of these in a very short time," said Mrs Farnsworth.

"He then foolishly got in his van to drive home."