AN Evesham man who claimed to be a passenger in a car after being found twice the drink-drive limit has been banned from the roads for 18 months.

Wayne Given was arrested after being spotted by police after he pulled out in front of their vehicle as they drove along the town's North Road just before 5pm on Sunday, March 24.

The officers became suspicious that the 23-year-old had been drinking because of the "erratic" manner in which he was driving.

Sally Hill, prosecuting, told magistrates the officers followed Given into Deacle Place where he pulled over next to a telephone box.

"The defendant did not slow down for speed ramps," she said.

"The officers pulled up behind the defendant who immediately began denying he was the driver.

"He became unpleasant and abusive saying that he was waiting for the driver of the car to return."

She added Given told the officers he had had six or seven pints before failing a roadside breath test.

He was found to have 71mcg of alcohol in 100mg of breath - the legal limit is 35.

Given, of Deacle Place, Evesham, admitted driving while above the legal limit when he appeared at Worcester Magistrates' Court yesterday.

Ian Speed, defending, said his client's change of plea was because he had since gained steady employment.

"My client knows he was wrong and now wants to get it out of the way," he said.

"He has fully woken up to his responsibilities. He is extremely apologetic and wants to get on with his life."

Given was banned from driving for 18 months, fined £250 and ordered to pay £80 costs.