Drink-driver previously caught behind the wheel on drugs

A sheriff has called for a background report on a motorist who drove with excess alcohol – two months after he was banned for drug driving.

Sheriff Neil Kinnear wants to know whether there are any underlying reasons for two such convictions within a short time frame.

The accused, John Smith, 39, pleaded guilty to having driven with more than twice the legal limit of alcohol and while disqualified.

Smith, 39, pleaded guilty to both counts. The offences occurred on the A832, near Milton, on April 9, Wick Sheriff Court was told today.

Tests revealed a breath-alcohol level of 55 mg – the legal limit is 22 mg.

Sheriff Kinnear said that because the drink and drug driving offences were in close proximity, this should be explored to establish whether there is an underlying issue.

In addition to a background report, the sheriff also ordered that the accused be assessed for his suitability for a drug treatment testing order.

Smith, of Lord Thurso Court, Thurso, will return to court on June 1 to be sentenced.