A MOTORIST who drove to hospital while over the alcohol limit was 'unaware' of the drink-driving limits in this country, a defence solicitor said.

Workington Magistrates’ Court heard that police had received a report from a member of the public about concerns for the standard of driving of a grey VW Golf on July 20.

Peter Kelly, prosecuting, said enquiries led officers to Keswick Community Hospital and Kelly Hall, 35, was identified as the driver of the car.

She was breathalysed and gave a reading of 78mcg of alcohol in 100ml of breath. The legal limit is 35mcg.

Hall, of St Herbert Street, Keswick was charged with drink-driving. She was interviewed by police but gave 'no comment' to all questions asked of her.

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Mike Pope, defending, said she had never denied being the driver and was 'fully compliant' with police.

He told the court: “There is no evidence of bad driving. She said she had driven to the hospital because she needed to get medical attention. She had been coughing up blood.

“Rather than ring for an ambulance, she took the bad decision, thinking she had been ok to drive.”

Mr Pope said Hall was diagnosed with coronavirus. He said she was not aware of the drink-driving limits in this country.

“She is taking this situation very seriously and has referred herself to Recovery Steps.”

Hall pleaded guilty to driving a vehicle with alcohol level above the limit on Crosthwaite Road in Keswick.

She was banned from driving for 20 months, to be reduced by 20 weeks, if she completes the drink-drivers’ rehabilitation course.

The defendant must pay £85 costs and a £48 victim surcharge.

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