INSURANCE broker Paul Davies found himself answering his second drink-drive charge in less than three years yesterday after police received a tip off.

Davies, a 52-year-old father of three, pleaded guilty to driving while over the limit after the court heard tests showed his breath alcohol level was 18 micrograms above the maximum of 35.

Magistrates in Harrogate fined him £850 with £69 costs. The court also heard Davies had been convicted of drink-driving in September 2000. He was banned from driving for three years.

Simon Ostler, prosecuting, said police were told to watch out for Davies' distinctive silver Audi A8 with its personalised registration plates as it drove from Harrogate towards his home at Hardgate House, Bishop Thornton. He was stopped at Ripley, on February 24, and was arrested.

Clive Farndon, defending, said Davies, who had his own business in Harrogate, had a lunchtime drink and believed he would be below the drink-drive limit because of the passage of time.