A SOLDIER who got behind the wheel after drinking about five lagers has lost his driving licence -- and about £9,000 into the bargain.

Burnley magistrates heard how Scott Corser, 21, did not give a specimen of breath to police, despite being given several opportunities.

Corser, of Park View Close, Brierfield, admitted failing to provide a specimen of breath. He was fined £250, banned for 12 months and must pay £65 costs. He had no previous convictions.

Philippa White, prosecuting, said at about midnight police saw the defendant travelling on Halifax Road, Brierfield, without lights.

They followed the defendant and stopped him and it was noticed he smelled of drink. He was asked to provide a roadside breath test, but the bag was under inflated, he was asked to provide another sample and agreed.

It was a positive sample and the defendant was taken to the police station.

Mrs White said Corser was unable or failed to provide a specimen of breath sufficient for analysis, but said he had no medical reasons for not doing so.

Bill Berry, defending, said Corser, who was in the Royal Signals, was ashamed and sorry to be in court.

He had spent the evening at home with friends and had had two cans of lager at about 5pm and perhaps three more after a gap of about three hours.

He stopped drinking at about 11pm and thought he would be fit to drive at midnight.

Corser had had the car for just a few days and was displaying some lights but not headlights. He did not provide the required specimen at the police station but did not know if it was due to a combination of stress and panic and being in a situation alien to him.

Mr Berry said the defendant was due to go abroad next Monday, but would face disciplinary proceedings in the Army. The fact he would not be able to drive would mean he would lose out to the tune of about £9,000.