A DRUNK 64-year-old man who was refused service by bar staff on his birthday made the “unwise and impulsive” decision to drive his car that he crashed immediately into a taxi.

Charles Barclay Simpson was seen holding his car keys in a pub on Darlington’s Grange Road, causing concern among staff.

Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court heard that Simpson had spent his birthday celebrating in Edinburgh before returning on the train to Darlington.

Emma Barker, prosecuting, said: “At around 9pm on the evening of Saturday, February 24, the defendant has entered a bar in Darlington town centre and was clearly intoxicated.

“As a result, a member of the bar staff has refused to serve him and she has suggested he go to the taxi rank and take a taxi home.

“He was holding a set of car keys while they were talking and she has continued to watch the defendant as he left and entered a silver Kia Rio.

“She’s observed the defendant reversing and hitting a taxi in the carriageway.

“He was in discussion with the taxi driver, but he’s been persuaded to come back to the pub by the member of staff who has given him a cup of tea and called the police.”

Simpson, of Bargate, in Richmond, North Yorkshire, who has no previous convictions and has held a driving licence for 44 years, pleaded guilty to drink-driving.

His solicitor addressed the court and said: “He made the unwise and impulsive decision to drive. No damage was caused to either vehicle.”

Simpson was banned from driving for a year and fined £80. He must also pay £85 costs and £30 surcharge.