An Isle of Wight drink driver, who has previously failed to attend two court dates which led to a warrant for his arrest, could finally be sentenced later this year.
Mark Fennell, of The Strand in Ryde, attended the Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court on Friday, September 13, and pleaded guilty to drink driving.
Lauren Stone, prosecuting, said Fennell failed to show up at court on April 30 before appearing in magistrates on June 11.
Fennell then failed to attend court again on June 25, leading to the arrest warrant.
Ms Stone said on October 30 last year, police were alerted by someone who knew Fennell that the 65-year-old might be driving his Nissan Micra while under the influence of alcohol.
Michael McGoldrick, defending, said his client is a man of previous good character who has been struggling with alcohol issues since the death of a close family member.
Mr McGoldrick told the court Fennell has since overcome his drinking, with the help of his family, sharing his client’s own words: “The bad patch is over.”
Magistrates adjourned the case to allow for a pre-sentence report ahead of the next court date on November 29.
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