A MAN has been banned from driving after admitting being more than twice the legal drink drive limit.

Shane Pryke’s Kia Picanto was stationary across the road from police officers as they drove down the A134 Westway, Colchester magistrates heard.

It was about 2.20am and other vehicles were having to manoeuvre around him, officers added.

Kathy Wilson, prosecuting, said: “Once out of the car, they described Pryke as being extremely unsteady on his feet.

“There was also substantial damage to the vehicle and officers were told he’d hit a puddle on the roundabout, and that he’d drank one pint.”

Pryke was arrested after a positive roadside test with a reading of 78mcg of alcohol in 100ml of breath. The legal limit is 35.

He had actually drunk closer to two pints of beer plus gin at Stoke by Nayland Golf Club, the court heard.

During his police interview, he admitted being at fault and claimed the only thing he hit during the drive was a puddle and a kerb.

Representing himself, Pryke, apologised for his behaviour and explained he had pulled the car over because of a mechanical fault rather than a collision.

Besides a public order offence in 2015, he has no previous convictions.

He said: “I got into the car and was lying to myself saying that I wasn’t drunk.

“I rely on my vehicle to get to work and it means quite a lot to me and my family.

“It was a naive and silly situation to be honest. I totally regret what I’ve done.”

Magistrates banned Pryke, 22, of Cavalry Road, Colchester, from driving for 20 months, which can can be reduced by undertaking a 16-hour drink-drive rehabilitation course at his own expense.

He must also pay £235 in costs.