A PRISON officer from Long Lartin has been banned from driving for two years after being caught weaving erratically as he drove through the centre of Evesham at more than twice the drink-drive limit.

Magistrates were told that Martin Price, a former tank driver, was likely to lose his job at the prison where he had worked for the past eight years.

Price, aged 35, of Cleeve Road, Middle Littleton, Evesham, was stopped after police received an anonymous call to say he was over the limit and would be driving along the High Street. He was seen passing the police station.

Price, who pleaded guilty to drink-driving, was fined £340 with £55 costs, in addition to the ban.

Julie Rosamund, prosecuting at Droitwich court last Friday, said the vehicle was wandering all over the road in an erratic manner and tests revealed a breath-alcohol level of 91. The legal limit is 35.

Rob Macrory, for Price, said he was drowning his sorrows following the break-up of a four-and-a-half year relationship. He had driven into Evesham, but later realised he did not have enough cash for a taxi and had left his bank card at home and so decided to drive home.

Mr Macrory said Price was "shocked, ashamed and embarrassed" by the incident, adding: "It has been made quite clear to him that he will lose his job as a result of any community service. He'll find it hard to continue working because he frequently finishes late at night when there is no public transport."

He said Price was a Chieftain tank driver, rising to the rank of corporal, before leaving the Army and joining the prison service.