A MAN who refused to provide a breath specimen when he was arrested on suspicion of drink driving has been disqualified from driving for three years.

Shaun Snowdon, 28, was found by police officers at his car, which had a flat tyre, at 12.45am on Sunday November 25, a hearing at Consett Magistrates’ Court was told.

David Bryson, prosecuting, said Snowdon admitted having driven the vehicle and he failed a roadside breath test. He refused to provide a specimen of breath when asked to do so at a police station.

Kate Duncan, mitigating, said Snowdon had been going through a difficult period at the time, but accepted it was no excuse and he had shown genuine remorse.

Snowdon of Elemore Street, High Pittington, near Durham, who has a previous drink driving conviction, pleaded guilty to the failing to provide a breath specimen.

He was also ordered to pay £470 in a fine and costs.