Drink driver caught at almost three times the limit when police spotted a defective light - and then found an unsecured passenger in the back of his van

But Christopher Wilson, 32, of Morris Crescent, Boldon Colliery, also ended up on the wrong side of the law when officers opened up the back of his 2006 Ford Connect van on Saturday, December 14.

Inside they found a passenger, sat unsecured – and he was also charged with using a motor vehicle to carry someone in a manner likely to cause danger, for which he was also charged.

South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court heard Wilson was breathalysed and produced a sample of 92 microgrammes in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

The court banned him from driving for 23 months and fined him £561 after he pleading guilty to drink-driving in Reginald Street, Boldon Colliery.

Paul Anderson, prosecuting, said: “The police see this van with a defective rear light. When they open the back door there’s someone in there.”

Joanna Gatens, defending, said: “It’s a guilty plea at the first opportunity. He details going out for a few drinks with friends.

“He works for a large local employer, he will not lose his employment, but this will hinder his chances of promotion. He is very remorseful and ashamed of his actions.”

For the drink-drive charge, Wilson must also pay £85 court costs and a £56 victim surcharge.

Magistrates imposed no separate penalty for the second admitted charge.