A DRUNK driver from Ochiltree has been banned from getting behind the wheel until 2027 after being caught speeding in the village.

Repeat offender David McDermitt was spotted speeding in a residential area in Mauchline Road on March 31 this year.

He admitted accelerating rapidly while driving without due care or attention to others on the road.

When he left the residential area, McDermitt, 51, failed to maintain a proper position on the road and repeatedly entered the carriageway of oncoming vehicles.

When he was stopped and cautioned by police, a breath sample showed he was almost twice the drink driving limit.

The sample showed a reading of 39 microgrammes of alcohol in 100ml of breath; the limit in Scotland is 22 microgrammes. 

At Ayr Sheriff Court last week, McDermitt, of Stewart Avenue,, pleaded guilty to the charges.

The procurator fiscal depute told the court: "Police officers in Ochiltree observed a vehicle heading away from Ochiltree and stopped the accused.

"Officers noted a smell of alcohol and he was arrested.

"The accused told officers 'I've f****d up - I need to drive for my work'."

McDevitt's defence lawyer told the court: "He accepts that he was over the limit and with a previous conviction for the offence."

McDermitt was banned from holding or obtaining a licence for 48 months and fined £580.