A Freshwater man has been banned from driving for three years for refusing to provide a breath sample after being spotted staggering back to his vehicle in Newport.

Benjamin Mercer, of Colwell Lane, attended the Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court on Friday, February 23, after previously pleading guilty to failing to provide a specimen for analysis.

Lauren Stone, prosecuting, said police received information about a parked vehicle on St James’ Street in Newport on December 17.

It was reported to police that a man left the vehicle and staggered out, before returning and driving away.

Ms Stone told the court police pulled over the vehicle, being driven by the 34-year-old Mercer, and requested him to provide an alcohol breath test, which came back with a reading of 120 when the legal limit is 35.

The prosecution said Mercer later refused further tests, claiming he did not understand what he was being asked to do. After being told he just had to blow into the tube, he still refused, said Ms Stone.

Michael McGoldrick, defending, said his client recognised that he needs help with alcohol and has already been in touch with Inclusion for assistance.

Mr McGoldrick told the court Mercer would almost certainly lose his job due to this incident.

Mercer was handed a three-year driving ban, a 12-month community order to include a six-month alcohol rehabilitation plan and a £346 fine.