An Isle of Wight woman has avoided a prison sentence but was banned from driving for almost three years after failing to provide a required alcohol test, admitting in court that she “could have killed someone."

Charlotte Browne, of Amherst Place, Ryde, pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen for analysis at the Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court on Friday, November 24.

Lauren Stone, prosecuting, said police were driving behind the 45-year-old just after midnight on October 6 on Long Lane in Newport.

Ms Stone said officers watched Browne swerve repeatedly across the road, before pulling her over and noting a smell of alcohol.

A roadside breathalyser test showed she had 107mg of alcohol on her breath when the legal limit is 35.

The defence said Browne later refused to comment at the police station and denied a blood test, saying she would only allow a doctor to conduct the test.

Browne has two previous failure to provide convictions dating back to the 1990s and 2000s.

Barry Arnett, defending, praised a ‘very comprehensive pre-sentence report’ and said his client has now accessed the help she needs.

Mr Arnett did not explain the reasons behind Browne’s actions in open court, stating the reasons have been listed in a pre-sentence report handed to magistrates.

Browne said: “I want my life back. I could have killed someone.”

Magistrates disqualified Browne from driving for 34 months and was handed an 18-month community order to include 30 rehabilitation days and a learning programme.

Browne must also pay a £120 fine, a £114 surcharge and £85 in costs.