Newly-passed teen found 'unconscious' behind the wheel in South Shields

A newly passed teenage driver must re-sit his test after being found asleep in his car with the key in the ignition while almost three times the drink drive limit in South Tyneside.

Sean Hewitt, 19, was described to a court as being “unconscious” in his Audi A1 in High Trees, Cleadon Park - despite music blasting from the stereo, a court heard.

Hewitt, of Churcher Gardens, near Wallsend, North Tyneside, had taken advantage of free booze on offer while socialising with work colleagues on Saturday, June 27.

The apprentice machinist had no intention of driving but returned to his motor to charge his mobile phone, then nodded off.

Police were summoned by passers-by concerned for him, but they struggled to rouse him, prosecutor Mariam Odetoro told South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court.

When they did, a breath test showed 93mcg of alcohol, against the legal limit of 35mcg.

Ms Odetoro said: “Members of the public had phoned police in concern for the defendant in High Trees.

“Upon arrival, they found the defendant in a red Audi and unconscious behind the wheel.

“The key was in the ignition and loud music was blasting. He had to be shaken to be awakened.

“He showed signs of intoxication and was transferred to Southwick police station in Sunderland. He has no previous convictions.”

Because Hewitt was not seen driving, he was charged with being in charge of a motor vehicle while above the alcohol limit.

The offence carries a maximum disqualification of six months or 10 penalty points.

Paul Hanratty, defending, said: “On the day in question, the defendant had attended a works event in South Shields. He says that he had quite a lot to drink because it was free.

“At some point, he recharged his mobile phone and went back to his car to do this. He put the key in the ignition to activate the engine to charge his phone.

“Because of the alcohol he had had, he fell asleep. He tells me it had been his intention to leave the car and stay with friends.

“He only passed his test six months ago, he’s a new driver and will revert to the status of a provisional licence holder.”

Magistrates imposed 10 penalty points and fined Hewitt £300, with a £120 victim surcharge and £85 court costs.