A TAXI driver has been banned from driving after he drove while over the legal limit, following an argument with his wife.

Arthur Turner, 44, of Faverdale Road, Darlington, was over the legal drink-drive limit while driving his private hire taxi with two children as passengers on November 12.

Mr Turner, who runs his own taxi firm, told Darlington Magistrates Court that he had not intended to drive that night, but had jumped into the car after discovering his wife was having an affair.

When he was stopped by police officers he told them: "You might as well do me. I will be over."

The court heard Mr Turner had had a drink with his meal at home and then drank cans of lager because he did not plan to drive that night.

He then discovered that his wife was seeing someone else and the couple had argued before Mrs Turner walked out and went to her mother's house.

Defending, Graham Hunsley said that Mr Turner had made several attempts to contact his wife by telephone but he was unable to speak to her. He got into his taxi and drove to the house.

After an altercation, he drove home and was stopped by police.

He said: "This was a fairly drastic situation. He has had a clean driving licence for many years and driving has been a big part of his life. There is a reconciliation between Mr Turner and his wife but his house is in jeopardy and his future is bleak."

Magistrates banned Turner for 18 months, and fined him £100 with £55 costs