PLEAS by a debt-ridden businessman caught drink-driving failed to secure his driving licence.

Hartlepool magistrates heard Mark Stephen Thomspon was driving on Belle Vue Way, in the town, last December, when he was seen speeding by a police patrol car.

He was pulled over in the early hours of the morning and found to be just over the drink-drive limit.

He had 91mg of alcohol in 100 ml of blood, and the limit is 88mg of alcohol.

The 31-year-old, from Solihull in the West Midlands, pleaded guilty, but asked the court for leniency.

He said: "The facts are correct, but I would ask that you consider I have no previous convictions and have had a driving licence for 14 years. My licence is essential to my job. I'm currently working with my creditors to avoid bankruptcy after a failed business venture. I have debts of £45,000."

Magistrates had no choice but to ban him from driving for a year and ordered him to pay a £150 fine and £34 costs.