‘ Lifetime’ ban still stands 13 years on

An engineer who was handed a lifetime driving ban 13 years ago has failed in his bid to return to the road.

Steven Graham, 39, was banned from the road in 2004 after he was found driving on a number of streets in Ayr without a licence or insurance.

He spent time in Kilmarnock’s Bowhouse prison as well, after comitting the offences while on bail. Graham returned to Ayr Sheriff Court last week in a bid to win back his licence.

His defence agent Ian Gillies said: “At that time he was 25 – he is now 39 – and in full- time employment with Mitsubishi and is very well thought of in his employment.

“Mr Graham tells me that he has turned his life around. He now has a new partner and she is expecting a baby.

“He just wants to get on with his life.”

But Sheriff John Montgomery wasn’ t convinced that Graham should be allowed back on the road – but told him all hope was not lost.

He said: “It is a fact that prior to the imposition of this disqualification for life back in 2004 you had a very bad record, particularly with regard to Road Traffic Act offences.

“It ’ s also a fact that following the disposal, where you were banned for life, you appealed that and were unsuccessful.

“In all circumstances, I do not consider it appropriate to overturn your disqualification.

“Having said that, it does appear that you have turned your life around and a future appeal may be looked upon more favourably.”