AN ISLE of Wight drink driver was caught by police after getting out of his car to ask for directions.

Colin Smith, of Colwell Road, Freshwater, appeared before Isle of Wight magistrates on Tuesday (March 14).

The 58-year-old admitted drink driving on Colwell Lane, on February 23.

Prosecutor, Ann Smout, told the court police had been on duty at approximately 7pm when they were alerted to a group of young people and a male talking.

She said they spoke to Smith, who accepted being the driver of a vehicle and drinking on the day.

The court heard he co-operated fully with the police and registered a breath-alcohol reading of 57 when the legal limit is 35.

Smith, representing himself, said he fully appreciated the seriousness of what he had done and was ashamed of his actions.

He said his sat nav had got him lost and he got out of his vehicle to ask for directions.

The court heard he had no passengers and he admitted his guilt from the outset.

Smith said a driving ban would be detrimental to the business he and his friend had set up, and would make it difficult for him to attend regular appointments.

He said it was completely out of character, and he was shocked and ashamed to find himself in court.

He assured magistrates they would not see him in the dock again.

Smith was fined £715 and ordered to pay costs of £85 and a £286 surcharge.

He was disqualified from driving for 16 months.