A MOTHER caught nearly three times over the drink drive limit at teatime was taking her little girl to Brownies, a court was told.

Burnley Magistrates heard how Donna Elizabeth McAlear, 43, had been having relationship problems and drank cider when she got home from work.

McAlear, of Skipton Road, Trawden, admitted driving with excess alcohol. She was banned for two years, fined £200 and must pay £50 costs.

Andrew Robinson, prosecuting, told the court the defendant was stopped about 6.20pm.

A breath test revealed 91 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath -- the legal limit is 35. She had no previous convictions.

Geoff Ireland, defending, said McAlear had a problem with drink.

She worked four hours a day and would hit the cider when she got home. She would have five glasses and drank because of problems at home.

The defendant's child was going to Brownies, her partner would not take her and she took the risk for a short journey.