AN HGV driver from County Durham has avoided losing his driving licence after being caught speeding.

Kevin Shane Willis, from Seaham, appeared at Harrogate Magistrates’ Court on Friday charged with speeding in excess of 30mph on a restricted road.

He was caught driving above the speed limit in Mayfield Road, Whitby, North Yorkshire, on August 27 last year while driving a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicle.

He pleaded guilty on February 7 and appeared on Friday so magistrates could decide on whether to disqualify him from driving.

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The 44-year-old, of Hazel Dene Way, Seaham, was fined £219, as well of costs of £85 and the £34 victim surcharge, giving him a total court bill of £338.

He was also given three penalty points. He was not disqualified from driving as a result due to mitigating circumstances.

Magistrates heard HGV driving is the only job he can take due to a previous wrist injury and there is a shortage of drivers.

The court also heard that Willis, who has been an HGV driver since 1996, has a family to support and has to care for his parents.

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