A Ballymena court banned James Ward, 40, from Laurel Park in Ahoghill, from driving for one year after finding cocaine in his system. The case came before Ballymena Magistrates' Court on March 12.

Police stopped Ward on Moorfields Road on March 22 last year due to concerns over his driving. A blood test confirmed the presence of cocaine. His defence stated he had consumed the drug at a party the previous day and believed he was able to drive.

Ward also pleaded guilty to three speeding violations. On February 16 last year, he drove at 43mph in a 30mph zone. On April 19 last year, he reached 84mph in a 70mph zone. On May 13 last year, he travelled at 40mph in a 30mph zone.

The court fined Ward £700 for the offences.