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Friday, November 07, 2008, 07:00
Lithuanian national Rima Petraviciene was seen driving a red Opel Astra on the outskirts of Scunthorpe at about 3.20am on October 27.
Dennis Aisthorpe, prosecuting, said: "It took the exit to the Lakeside Parkway travelling at about 15 to 20mph and swerving in the carriageway."
Petraviciene was stopped and was asked to provide a roadside breath test. "She was unable to do so and was arrested," said Mr Aisthorpe. At the police station two further tests revealed an alcohol level of 60 mcgs – the legal limit is 35 mcgs.
Defence solicitor Richard Hackfath said: "She is in Scunthorpe because she was visiting friends in the town and she had travelled over from Lithuania by car and ferry."
He said Petraviciene had been to a birthday party on the night in question. "She does not drink regularly but she was prevailed on to drink that night," he explained.
Mr Hackfath said his client was not aware of UK laws in relation to drink driving. He told magistrates Petraviciene intended to return to Lithuania shortly after the court case was concluded.
He said she would have to arrange for her car to be taken to the ferry. "Once she is on the other side of the water the disqualification ceases," he pointed out.
Petraviciene (53), whose address was given as Warwick Road, Scunthorpe, used an interpreter during the court hearing. She pleaded guilty to a drink driving charge and was banned from driving for 17 months.
She was also fined £100 and told to pay a £15 surcharge and £60 costs.
DRINK DRIVER: North Lincolnshire Magistrates' Court.
Well done Tony Blair! You knew just when to resign as Prime Minister, leaving Gordon Brown in the mess you created. However, Brown is not without criticism.The next election I will vote for the Monster Raving Loony Party.
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