A DRINK driver who went to the pub to celebrate buying a new car almost crashed in to a police car.

Burnley Magistrates Court heard how Lithuanian national Edvinas Marazus decided to stop for a drink with friends on the way home from collecting his new car.

But after 'one too many' the 26-year-old assembly worked got back into the BMW to drive home.

Tracey Yates, prosecuting, said: "He failed to giveaway at a roundabout on Barkerhouse Road in Nelson, almost crashing into a patrol car.

"He was pulled over and cooperated fully with the police. He has no previous convictions."

David Norman, defending, said: "My client had just bought the car and he was with friends driving it.

"They stupidly stopped to have a drink to celebrate the purchase of the vehicle."

Marazus, of Reedyford Road, Nelson, admitted to driving with excess alcohol in his system after a breath alcohol level of 55 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millitres of breath was recorded.

The legal limit is 35.

He was fined £270, with a £30 victim surcharge and £85 court costs. He was also banned for 15 months.