A Denbighshire publican was banned from driving for 42 months on Wednesday after he admitted his fourth excess-alcohol offence since 2005 and flouting an existing disqualification.

David Ricklesford, aged 38, of Clwyd Street, Ruthin – subject to a four-year ban imposed in 2015 - had bought a VW Golf the day before the latest offences, his solicitor said. But the defendant insisted it was for his partner, magistrates at Llandudno heard.

Ricklesford received a ten weeks suspended jail term and twelve-week 7pm-7am curfew. He must also undertake a rehabilitation activity and pay £200 costs. He admitted driving in Mwrog Street, Ruthin, on May 17 with excess alcohol, and while banned and uninsured.

James Neary, prosecuting, said police saw the car in the early hours. Ricklesford told them he was driving a friend home. He was twice the alcohol limit.

Brian Cross, defending, said the drunken pal had knocked on the window of the pub and Ricklesford decided to take the friend home. “He accepts now it was a very foolish thing to do,” the lawyer remarked.

Dawn Davies, the court chairwoman, told Ricklesford :”It’s obvious you haven’t learned your lesson. You have driven before with excess alcohol and driven while disqualified.”