Drink-driver stopped as he searched for his friend

A “CONCERNED” friend was pulled over by police after he decided to get behind the wheel of a car and look for his missing flatmate after a night of drinking.

Alfie Parkinson was seen driving through Jesmond with no lights on in the early hours of the morning, but went into “panic mode” when police tried to pull him over. The 21-year-old had been out drinking earlier in the evening but became worried when his flatmate didn’t return home.

Parkinson, of Newlands Road, Jesmond, Newcastle, then decided to drive his flatmate’s car round the area in the hope of finding him. Instead, he was pulled over by police and arrested.

Last week, Parkinson appeared at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court facing a charge of drink driving. He pleaded guilty to the offence and was banned from driving.

When providing a breath test Parkinson had 53 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

John Kirkham, defending, said Parkinson was of “impeccable character” and “apologises” for the offence. He said: “He has a flatmate and they had been out with friends earlier in the evening. He went home to his flat but his flatmate didn’t return, he was concerned about his friend.”

Mr Kirkham said Parkinson was aware that police were trying to pull him over, but went into “panic mode” and carried on driving after police indicated for him to stop. Police eventually pulled in front of the car.

Parkinson was fined £120 and banned from driving for 15 months, which could be reduced if he completes a drink driving awareness course.

He must also pay £48 and £85 costs.