A GALASHIELS man who was found to be three times the legal alcohol limit while driving has been banned from the road for 12 months at Selkirk Sheriff Court.

John Mein, 55, of Scott Street, pleaded guilty to the offence which happened in Melrose Road, Galashiels on August 14.

The court was told that Mein had previously been involved in a dispute and police were phoned.

Procurator fiscal Graham Fraser said: "The police attended and it transpired the accused had been drinking and driving.

"He said he had only driven a short distance from the garage but that's all it takes."

Mein admitted driving with a breath/alcohol count of 63 microgrammes - the legal limit being 22.

Defence lawyer Stephanie Clinkscale said her client had previously been the victim of a serious assault during which he was stabbed in the neck.

She explained: "On the date in question he was informed who was responsible - it was a relative of a friend of his.

"The shock took over and he forgot he had been drinking alcohol earlier that day and got into the vehicle and drove a short distance."

Mein - who gets £636 per month Universal Credit - said he had hoped to start a gardening business but was not fit enough due to the assault he suffered and he was also losing his licence.

Ms Clinkscale added: "Since he was arrested he has not driven since. "He is disgusted with himself."

In addition to the year long ban, Mein was fined £240, reduced from £360 due to the guilty plea.