Caithness driver was three times limit after he crashed into fence

Police officers who followed Kevin Grant observed him lose control on a bend and crash into a metal fence.

Grant was breathalysed positive and a subsequent test revealed a breath-alcohol level of 66 mcg – three times the legal limit of 22 mcg.

The 57-year-old fireman/crofter also admitted a charge of careless driving and a record when he appeared at Wick Sheriff Court on Thursday.

He was fined a total of £600 and banned from driving for a year.

The offences occurred on the A99 between the North Road and the Wick Airport Industrial Estate, on April 11.

Solicitor George Mathers told the court that a friend of Grant had arrived at the accused's home at Lochend, Barrock, bringing with him some beer which the two men shared.

Grant left to purchase a further supply and subsequently came to the attention of the police who thought he was travelling "a little fast".