Hartlepool motorist was almost FIVE times the drink drive limit with 'record' breath test reading

Paul Webster, 51, was reported driving ‘all over the road’ on the A19 near Billingham in a Mini Cooper.

A breath-test gave a reading of 169 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35 microgrammes.

District Judge Tim Capstick told Webster it was the highest reading he had ever seen when he appeared before him at Teesside Magistrates Court.

The offence took place at about 6pm on Monday, August 31, last year.

Leanne Duffy, prosecuting, said: “Police received a telephone call from a member of the public stating a vehicle was all over the road and gave a description of a Mini Cooper.

“Police located the defendant on the hard shoulder of the A19. The defendant was extremely drunk.

“He was slurring his words and his eyes were glazed.”

Webster failed a roadside breath test and was taken to a police station.

Two more breath tests were taken with the lowest reading being 169 microgrammes.

It was not said in court what he had drunk to give such a high reading.

Webster, of Eldon Grove, Hartlepool, pleaded guilty to driving above the legal alcohol limit.

District Judge Capstick told him: “You have the record in front of me.

“I have never had a defendant in front of me, male or female, who’s managed to make 169 in breath which is coming up to five times the legal limit.”

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Webster was banned from driving for three years and given eight weeks prison suspended for 12 months.

Neil Taylor, defending, said Webster, who had no previous convictions, may have had a ‘minor mental health issue’ on the day of the offence.

The court heard he had taken steps to address his drinking with local service Addaction.

Mr Taylor said: “This is a man who is remorseful, devastated”.

Webster must also complete a nine-month alcohol treatment programme, 15 rehabilitation activity days, and pay £230 in costs and surcharges.

District Judge Capstick urged him not to be tempted to drive during the ban saying any further offences would likely result in prison.

“I hope this is the one and only time I see you before the court,” he said.

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