A DRINK-driver has been banned from the roads for three years after being found behind the wheel whilst more than twice the legal limit.

Alan Qader Ahmad appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court yesterday where he pleaded guilty to one charge of drink-driving.

The court heard that he had previously been convicted of drink driving and dangerous driving for which he received a 12 month ban.

Clare Irving, prosecuting, said: "He has recently passed an extended retest and does now have a full license.

"This is his second drink-driving conviction so clearly he has not learned about drink driving.

"At 3.55am on January 12, he is seen swerving across the road by officers before he stops in the middle of the road.

"Officers speak to him and find him clearly under the influence of alcohol.

"A road-side breath test showed 75mg of alcohol in his breath."

The legal limit is 35mg.

Stephen Hamil, mitigating, said Ahmad, of Thornton Street, Darlington was "extremely remorseful".

He added: "It is unlucky for him to get his full license back and then throw it all away with a senseless act. It is very confusing.

"He is the classic case of someone who does not realise until he gets here that it is a three-year ban because of his previous conviction. He is very sorry."

Alongside the 36-month driving ban, Ahmad, 32, must pay £120 financial penalty, £32 victim surcharge and £85 costs.