South Shields woman banned for drink-driving after row with partner on Scottish scuba-diving trip

Rebecca Hines, a 33-year-old accountant, admitted drink-driving while on a trip to Eyemouth in Scotland following a bust-up with her partner.

A not-guilty plea to assaulting her partner by repeatedly punching him at the Home Arms Guest House in High Street, Eyemouth, on July 1 accepted by the crown at Jedburgh Sheriff Court.

She pleaded guilty to driving with a breath-alcohol count of 35 microgrammes, the legal limit being 22.

The court heard Hines, of Sea Winnings Way, South Shields, was visiting Eyemouth with her partner of 18 months to go scuba-driving.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said: “There was a falling-out and she drove off, but she had been drinking.”

Defence lawyer Mat Patrick said his client was an experienced scuba-diver.

He explained: “They had been out that evening, but it was an unpleasant experience for her because of the behaviour of the people she was with.

“They came back to the guesthouse, and things deteriorated from there.

“Those who were with her became aggressive, and with emotions running high, she drove off.”

He added: “She realised what she was doing and was looking for somewhere safe to stop when the police caught up with her.

“It has been a very distressing and upsetting experience.”

Sheriff Peter Paterson banned Hines from driving for a year.

He also reduced her fine from £650 to £500 due to her guilty plea.