AN early hours cry for help led to a young dad losing his driving licence.

Burnley magistrates heard plumber Lee Whitehead, 23, had drunk six pints and had not intended to get behind the wheel.

But the defendant, a learner driver, then got a call from a distressed former partner, got in the car and went to her aid. His good turn had also put his job at risk.

Whitehead, of Wallhurst Close, Worsthorne, admitted driving with excess alcohol, using an uninsured vehicle and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence. He was fined £200, with £35 costs and banned from driving for 12 months.

Andy Robinson, prosecuting, said plain clothes police were attending other duties and saw the defendant driving round the streets of Brierfield.

He was followed and stopped in a cul de sac. Officers went to speak to Whitehead. He got out of his car and said:"You might as well take me. I have had six pints."