A CARLISLE drink-driver took her brother-in-law’s car without permission in a bid to buy “pop and Rizla” papers from a shop.

But 34-year-old Danielle Young’s illegal excursion ended in a court appearance and a lengthy driving ban after she was stopped by police.

Carlisle Magistrates’ Court heard her offending occurred at 10pm on December 10.

Young was recognised by a police officer as she drove a Volkswagen Passat on a road adjacent to the city’s Peel Street.

“She contravened a one-way system on to Peel Street,” said prosecutor Andy Travis. “An officer followed the vehicle which came to a natural stop outside an address on Peel Street.”

Young was spoken to and a smell of alcohol was detected. She was breathalysed and the test proved positive. An evidential reading later showed 57 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35mcg.

“She was driving alone. She had a provisional licence only,” said Mr Travis. “The vehicle was not insured to the defendant and (the registered keeper) states the vehicle was his and was taken without his permission.

“She was interviewed later that day, admitted all the offences and states she took the keys from her brother-in-law to go to the shop to buy pop and Rizlas.”

When brought to court Young, of Bower Street, Carlisle, admitted having no insurance, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, drink-driving and also taking a vehicle without consent.

The court heard Young had previous convictions for the latter two offences, dating back to 2017, when she was given a community order and 18-month driving ban.

Mark Shepherd, defending, said Young had suffered multiple traumas during the last couple of years including a bereavement, suffered from her mental health “significantly” and currently drank alcohol every day.

“Perhaps when one is undergoing all these difficulties, at the time it seems as if it is more of an inconvenience whilst the court knows it is a risk to others driving in this state,” said Mr Shepherd. “She is sorry for what she has done.”

Concluding there was a realistic prospect of rehabilitation, magistrates imposed a £120 fine and 12-month community order comprising rehabilitation and an alcohol treatment programme. Young was also given a 40-month driving ban.