A HEROIN addict who repeatedly drove while disqualified was told by magistrates yesterday to take his driving test.

Father-to-be Mark Naisbitt, 24, of Pateley Moor Crescent, Darlington, pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified and without insurance at the town's magistrates' court.

David Maddison, prosecuting, said Naisbitt was banned from driving in 1999 and was told the ban remained until he passed a driving test.

"Subsequent to that disqualification he has appeared on four occasions for driving while disqualified," said Mr Maddison.

The latest offence occurred on March 21 when Naisbitt was spotted by police behind the wheel of a Ford Mondeo.

Graham Hunsley, in mitigation, said Naisbitt, whose girlfriend is expecting a baby, was making progress after a serious heroin addiction.

He said: "While he was aware that he wouldn't have a licence, he doesn't appear to have taken on board that he needed to take a re-test."

Naisbitt was given an 18-month community rehabilitation order and ordered to pay £34 court costs.