Londoner Caught Drink-Driving After Boozy Bar Brawl
Gareth Cloete, 38, of Whatley Avenue in London, pleaded guilty to drink driving at the Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
Security Dragged Drunk Driver From Bar – Then Caught Him Behind The Wheel
The court heard that on the night of June 25, Cloete was kicked out of the bar at Nodes Point Holiday Park for drinking too much. Just 20 minutes later, security guards spotted him behind the wheel of his Audi A3. The whole incident was caught on video and handed to police when they arrived at 11:30pm.
Breathed Nearly Twice The Legal Limit – 20-Month Driving Ban
A breathalyser test showed Cloete had a reading of 73 — well over the 35 legal limit.
Prosecutor Ann Smout revealed Cloete told officers he couldn’t remember driving, though he did recall being in the car.
Defence lawyer Henry Farley said his client made a “catastrophic error of judgement” and felt ashamed. He pointed out that Cloete has held a full driving licence for over 20 years and only drove about 30 yards that night.
Fines, Costs, and a Driving Ban Hit Window Film Boss
- Cloete was fined £400
- Given a 20-month driving ban
- Ordered to pay £85 costs plus a £160 surcharge
The window film installer, who owns his own business, now faces a tough road ahead after the court’s ruling.
