A pensioner has won back his driving licence two years early after a ban.

Edward Hudson, of Ronague Road, Arbory, was banned from driving for five years in April 2016 after failing to provide a sample of breath.

But magistrates ruled the 70-year-old’s ban will now end in April this year.

He must still pass an extended driving test before starting driving again.

Defence advocate Stephen Wood told the court how health problems made it difficult for Hudson to walk to his property in Ronague even after getting a bus.

He was said to be suffering from COPD and bouts of cellulitis in his legs.

Hudson gave evidence in court and said his wife worked different hours and was on call so it was difficult for her to provide transport for him.

He said he had completed a drink-drive rehabilitation course which had ’opened his eyes’ and he felt the film he was shown on the effects of drink-driving should be viewed by everyone.

He said he had not consumed alcohol for 10 and a half months, aside from having one pint of beer, such was the effect of the film.

Hudson said he had refused to take the breathalyser test because he didn’t trust the machinery after he was required to take one in Birmingham which gave different readings.

Earlier, prosecutor Richard Butters told the court the original offence occurred on March 13, 2016.

Police were called after a member of the public was concerned about Hudson’s driving. Hudson refused to take a breathalyser test three times at police headquarters.

The prosecutor opposed the licence restoration, telling Hudson: ’You’re still making excuses. You didn’t take a breathalyser test because you knew how much you had drunk that night.’