A DRINK driver has been banned from driving for 20 months after crashing into a lamp post in Tidworth.

Paul Neave, 65, of Shaw Close, Andover, pleaded guilty to drink driving at Salisbury Magistrates Court on December 6.

At 10pm on November 16, Neave was driving his Lexus southbound along the A338 Salisbury Road when he lost control of the car.

The car left the carriageway outside Tedworth House and overturned, colliding with a lamp post.

Paramedics and police officers arrived on scene and Neave failed a roadside breath test. He was arrested and then taken to Salisbury District Hospital to be checked over.

As well as the driving disqualification, Neave was fined £807, ordered to pay £80 victim surcharge and £85 costs.

PC Kieran Leibrick said: “We will not tolerate drink driving – not only are you putting your own life in danger, but the lives of other road users and pedestrians, and this is completely unacceptable.

“Neave caused significant damage to his vehicle – he is fortunate that nobody was injured as a result of his actions.

“While drink driving is an issue all year round, we know at this time of year that many people are out and about celebrating the festive season by having several drinks. It is really important to plan ahead and ensure you know how you are getting home. It is simply not worth taking the risk.”

  • Wiltshire Police is supporting the National Police Chiefs Council Drink Drug Drive campaign that launches this week and runs through to January.

Inspector Mark Freeman, of Specialist Operations, said: "During 2018, 5535 drivers were breathalysed by Wiltshire Police on suspicion of drink driving and 371 on suspicion of drug driving. 1034 of these drivers are now having to face the reality of their decision to risk driving under the influence of drink or drugs and have lost their licences and been fined. There is no excuse.”

Anyone wishing to report an incident of drug/drink driving should call Wiltshire Police on 101 and select the option for the Drink Drive Hotline. In an emergency dial 999.