A DRUG-driver who had taken cannabis for back pain told a court, ‘it’s not like I’m a drug addict’.

Stephen Little, 39, was seen driving an Audi A3 towards Workington on April 22. Checks made  by police showed he was not insured, Workington Magistrates’ Court heard.

Pamela Fee, prosecuting, said police pulled him over and a driving licence check revealed he had an expired provisional licence.

Little’s pupils were small and it was suspected that he was driving under the influence. A drugs test gave a positive indication for cannabis.

He was taken to the police station and a blood sample was taken which showed he had not less than 6mcg of Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol per litre of blood. The specified limit is 2mcg.

Little, who was not legally represented in court, told magistrates: “I moved back from the Isle of Man. I’m trying to better myself and become an engineer. My dad’s got dementia.

“I got to the address with my partner. There was a commotion. I thought police were going to be phoned. I was at Low Moresby.

“I wanted to get the vehicle away from the situation. I thought the police were there because of my dad’s actions.”

Little said he had taken the drug for back pain. He told the court: “It’s not like I’m a drug addict.

“It’s unfortunate circumstances.”

Little, of Wastwater Avenue, Workington, pleaded guilty to driving a motor vehicle with a proportion of a controlled drug above the limit, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence and using a motor vehicle on a road without third party insurance.

Magistrates imposed a 12-month driving disqualification and fined Little £583. He must also pay £85 costs and a £233 victim surcharge.