AN Oswestry worker has lost his driving licence after police caught him behind the wheel whilst over the alcohol limit.

Joshua Sprague, of Eldon Grove in Rhostyllen, appeared at Wrexham Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

The 25-year-old, who the court heard works in Oswestry, admitted one offence of drink-driving, which took place in Wrexham on September 8.

Prosecutor Justin Espie told the court that on the day in question, police spotted Sprague driving a Vauxhall Astra in Holt Road and pulled him over.

A positive roadside breath test was followed by an evidential reading of 76 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath - the limit being 35.

Mr Espie said there had been nothing to suggest the defendant's driving had been impaired and he had no previous convictions.

Ceri Lewis, defending, said: "Mr Sprague is extremely remorseful and ashamed that he has lost his good character.

"He said he'd been out for a few drinks with his friends and his partner.

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"This is something he's never done before and it's not something I think he will be repeating.

"He does not know how the driving ban will affect his job, as he works extremely long hours on a full time basis in Oswestry."

Ms Lewis added her client had been "calm and compliant" with police at the roadside.

Magistrates banned Sprague from driving for 18 months and ordered him to pay a £400 fine, £160 victim surcharge and £85 costs.