Darren Neeve (21) was pulled up by police who saw his Vauxhall Astra approach Horn's Bridge roundabout at Chesterfield in the early hours of 20th August in erratic fashion.

He was arrested after he failed a roadside breath test and went on to give a reading of 73mcgs of alcohol in 100mls of breath –– more than double the 35mcgs limit.

Neeve, of Schoolfield Close, who admitted drink-driving, had no previous convictions.

On Wednesday, Chesterfield magistrates fined him a total of £211, with £60 costs, and banned him from driving for 18 months.

The ban will be cut by 18 weeks if he passes a drink-driving rehabilitation course.

Said Caroline Clarke, in mitigation: "He was out celebrating his birthday with a friend and intended to stay the night at his friend's address, where he had left his car.

"Unfortunately, they had a heated row after drinking and his friend insisted he left. He had no money for a taxi and he had tried to ring relatives for a lift but he ended up deciding to drive home."

Miss Clarke said Neeve had been in work for two and a half years and was well-regarded by his boss, who had written a letter of support for him to the court.

She said a lengthy disqualification posed a problem for Neeve, adding: "It is anticipated that, when he completes his training in a year's time, he will need a vehicle for his work."