A COMPANY director on his way to work at 6.15 am came across a car on its side in a ditch with the engine still running.

Blackburn magistrates heard Derek Hallam helped the driver out but ended up getting him in a bear hug to stop him leaving the scene before the police arrived.

David Ryan Dickson, 26, of Lytham Road, Blackpool, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol on Crown Point Road, Burnley. He was made subject to a community order for 18 months with 30 days rehabilitation activity requirement, fined £50 and banned from driving for 42 months. The court heard Dickson, who had a previous drink driving conviction, gave a reading of 96 against the legal limit of 35.

Catherine Allan, prosecuting, said Mr Hallam stopped when he saw the car in the ditch. The lights were on and the engine still running. He helped the driver get out and a female passenger who was wearing pyjamas.

"They both appeared drunk," said Miss Allan. "When the police arrived the defendant was being held in a bear hug to prevent him leaving the scene."

Keith Rennison, defending, said fortunately no on had been seriously injured in the incident.

"My client is aware that might not have been the case," said Mr Rennison.