A woman who left the island in 2013 before being sentenced for motoring offences has been fined £600 and banned from driving for six months.

Gillian Ann Connor, of Mona Drive, Douglas, admitted driving without insurance, having no driving licence, and failing to notify a change of vehicle ownership seven years ago.

The court heard that Connor had entered her guilty pleas on April 4, 2013, and the case had been adjourned for a probation report to be prepared.

But the 33-year-old then left the island for Liverpool with her partner before sentencing took place, only to return last year.

Prosecuting advocate Rachael Braidwood told the court that, in February 2013, police on patrol in Regent Street in Douglas saw Connor’s Vauxhall Vectra parked in a ’keep clear’ zone.

When asked if the car was insured Connor said: ’I just haven’t got round to doing it.’

She said she had been driving it since Christmas Eve.

She also told police that she thought she could not change the ownership until she had insurance and had not obtained a licence yet despite passing her test.

Defence advocate Louise Cooil said that, at the time of the offences, her client was heavily addicted to opiates.

’It was a time in her life when things were chaotic,’ said the advocate.

’Shortly after appearing in court she was taken by her partner to Liverpool to live. She was in an abusive relationship centred around drugs.’

Ms Cooil went on to say that Connor was working with the drugs rehabilitation organisation Motiv8.

Ms Cooil also handed in letters of reference for her client and said: ’She has suffered and left the island in 2013 not really understanding the consequences.’

Deputy High Bailiff Chris Arrowsmith told Connor: ’You have had considerable difficulties in your life and to your credit returned to the Isle of Man.’

Connor was fined £400 for having no insurance, and £100 for each offence of having no driving licence and failing to change the ownership.

She must also pay £50 prosecution costs and will pay all amounts at a rate of £10 per week deducted from benefits.