A SELF-employed gardener who was abusive to police was caught drink-driving hours after he was released from the police station.

Burnley magistrates heard how Andrew Redfearn, 28, who had a previous conviction for excess alcohol, would now lose his work as he faced a lengthy driving ban.

Redfearn, of Comrie Crescent, Burnley, was fined a total of £270 and disqualified for three years after admitting driving with excess alcohol, two counts of no licence, two of no insurance, and threatening behaviour.

Andy Robinson, prosecuting, said officers believed Redfearn had thrown a board at a passing police car. He swore at them, was abusive about the officers' wives and daughters and was taken to the police station.

He was released at 5.15am and was later stopped for a routine check. The lower of two breath tests showed 56 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath - the legal limit is 35.

John Greenwood, defending, said Redfearn completed a three and a half year driving ban last December.

A self-employed gardener, he would have to give up his work. He had been worse the wear for drink but was sure he had not thrown the board at the car.

Mr Greenwood went on: "He walked home, slept, then had some breakfast, and was quite surprised when he found he was over the limit."

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