DRINKING the night before he was involved in a minor road traffic incident led to a 17 month driving ban for a Cowes man.

Michael Walker, 40, of Mill Hill Road, admitted drink driving when he appeared before Isle of Wight magistrates today (Thursday).

Following a minor accident on Horsebridge Hill, Newport, on December 8, he blew an alcohol reading of 65 — the legal limit is 35.

The court heard Walker, of previous good character, was adamant to police he had not been drinking that day and had not drunk since the night before.

For Walker, Lee Peckham said his client had been drinking at home the night before the incident.

He had gone to sleep and had not intended to drive over the limit.

The following day, Walker was on his way home from a meeting when he was involved in the accident and police were called.

Mr Peckham added: "From his demeanour, they did not think he was over the limit.

"He felt he was safe to drive."

Walker was also fined £350 and told to pay costs of £85 and a surcharge of £35.