Drug testing order for danger driver

A dangerous driver who took to the roads while banned has been placed on a drug testing order by a sheriff.

Serial offender Patrick McHardy was so wasted behind the wheel he swerved all over the road as he drove through Paisley and the roundabout at Glasgow Airport.

The 28- year- old was so oblivious to his surroundings that he drove for more than two miles before noticing police tailing him with their blue flashing lights on.

McHardy – who is originally from Paisley but now staying in Paisley Road, Renfrew –pleaded guilty to charges of driving without insurance, driving while disqualified and driving while unfit to do so through drink or drugs, at a court hearing last year.

At the time, Procurator Fiscal Depute Keri Marshall said police received an anonymous call to tell them McHardy was driving a black Vauxhall Vectra on Glen Street, while “under the influence of something.”

Police officers were called to attend and they caught McHardy nearby, following him for over two miles and arresting him near the airport.

Sheriff David Pender ruled it may be better for society if McHardy was helped to get clean.

The sheriff explained: “It seems to me the public may be better served if I grant you a Drug Treatment and Testing Order and you comply with it.”

Sentence had been deferred a number of times over the 11-month period, and McHardy returned to the dock yesterday to learn his fate.

Defence lawyer Mark Chambers said: “He has been abstinent for about five months but he has been assessed as a suitable candidate (for a DTTO).”

Sheriff Pender then imposed the sentence which will see McHardy meet regularly with drug workers and provide samples to prove he is clean.