An eight-time island golf champion has been fined £500 after twice breaching an alcohol ban and being found drunk in a public place.

Gary Wilson, aged 60, of Close Lhergy, Union Mills, admitted all three offences and was also ordered by magistrates to pay £125 prosecution costs.

The court heard that Wilson was banned from entering licensed premises for six months on August 23.

Prosecutor Roger Kane told the court that, on August 27 at 12.20am, police were called to the Sefton Hotel after a report of a man asleep outside on a bench.

When police arrived Wilson was standing but when officers asked for his name he gave them false details and was vague about his address.

A witness said that Wilson had been in the bar drinking all night.

He then gave police his real name and a police check found that he was subject to a licensing ban.

A further report was then received that Wilson had been drinking in the George Hotel in Castletown at 1pm.

Advocate Kate Alexander said: ’Mr Wilson initially gave a false name but that was short-lived. He says he is an alcoholic and binge drinks.

’He has lengthy periods of sobriety then has periods when things do not go so well.’

Ms Alexander said Wilson was attending Alcoholics Anonymous and working with Motiv8.

Magistrates made a new six-month licensing ban, starting with immediate effect, prohibiting Wilson from entering licensed premises, and purchasing or being sold alcohol.